Foot and Ankle Arthritis

Arthritis is a common condition that can affect both the feet and ankles. When it does, it makes walking and many daily activities uncomfortable to perform. This article explains the common types of arthritis that affect the feet and ankles. We also explain how this condition can be identified and treated.

If you would like to know more about the treatment options available for your condition, feel free to contact Bluebonnet Foot and Ankle Institute in Austin, Texas. Our podiatrists specialize in caring for arthritic feet and ankles. Our extensive background in non-surgical and surgical treatments can provide you with multiple options for joint pain relief and care.

Our Services

What is Arthritis in the Feet and Ankles?

Arthritis refers to the inflammation of one or more joints, causing pain and stiffness. Arthritis can affect any joint in the body. The joints of the feet and ankles are a common place for arthritis to affect. Arthritis of the foot and ankle can significantly impact mobility and daily activities.

Types of Arthritis

There are many different types of arthritis. Common types of arthritis that affect the feet and ankles are osteoarthritis and inflammatory arthritis. It can include any of the following:

Osteoarthritis: Also known as degenerative joint disease, osteoarthritis is common in middle-aged and older individuals but can occur in younger people too. It involves the gradual wearing away of cartilage in the joint, leading to bone-on-bone contact and the formation of painful bone spurs.
Rheumatoid Arthritis: Rheumatoid arthritis is a chronic autoimmune disease that often begins in the foot and ankle joints. It causes the immune system to attack the synovium, leading to inflammation, joint damage, and potential deformity.
Post-traumatic Arthritis: This type of arthritis can develop after a foot or ankle injury, particularly if it involves joint surface damage. Even with proper treatment, injuries can increase the likelihood of arthritis development in the affected joint.
Gout: This condition is a result of a buildup of uric acid from your diet or due to a genetic predisposition for gout. It will often affect the big toe and other parts of the feet and ankle because it’s the farthest body part from your heart.
Psoriatic arthritis: This condition can affect many joints at the same time, including your ankles and the ends of your toes. Your toe may also swell, called dactylitis.

Foot and Ankle Arthritis Symptoms

Arthritis symptoms vary depending on the affected joint. Common symptoms of foot and ankle arthritis include the following:

Often, the pain may worsen with activity or after periods of rest. Joint tenderness is usually present. In some cases, arthritis can lead to visible joint deformities.

Foot and Ankle Arthritis Diagnosis

Diagnosing foot and ankle arthritis involves a thorough physical examination and may include imaging tests like X-rays. Doctors assess symptoms and medical history and conduct gait analysis to understand the severity and location of arthritis. You may also require MRI scans in some cases to determine damage to soft tissues.

Treatment Options

At Bluebonnet Foot and Ankle Institute, we provide several options to treat foot and ankle arthritis. The purpose of each treatment is to relieve symptoms and reduce pain.

Non-Surgical Treatment

It will often be recommended that you start with non-surgical treatments. These options include the following:

Lifestyle modifications, such as activity adjustments and weight management, can help relieve symptoms.
Physical therapy aims to improve joint flexibility and strengthen supporting muscles.
Medications like NSAIDs or cortisone injections can reduce inflammation and relieve pain.
MLS Laser Therapy effectively treats pain and inflammation.

Surgical Treatment

When non-surgical options aren’t effective, surgery may be recommended. Options include the following:

Arthroscopic debridement to remove damaged tissue.
Arthrodesis to fuse joint bones.
Total ankle replacement to replace the damaged ankle joint surfaces with artificial ones.

Recovery

Recovery from foot and ankle surgery typically involves pain management, immobilization with casts, and physical therapy to restore strength and mobility.

Full recovery may take several months, during which supportive footwear or braces may be necessary.

Outlook

While there’s no cure for arthritis, effective treatments can help manage symptoms and improve quality of life. With proper care and management, individuals with foot and ankle arthritis can lead active and fulfilling lives.

Schedule an Appointment Today

If you’re experiencing foot and ankle arthritis symptoms, don’t hesitate to seek professional help. Leaving arthritis untreated can often make the pain worse. Contact us at Bluebonnet Foot and Ankle Institute in Austin, Texas, to schedule an appointment and explore personalized treatment options for your condition!

Medically reviewed by Liza Chabokrow, DPM