Arthritis is an inflammation and swelling of the cartilage and lining of the joints. It’s often accompanied by an increase in the fluid found in the joints.
There are numerous types of arthritis – osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and gout, among others – and like many other diseases, arthritis can develop from more than 100 other disorders.
If the feet in particular become affected by this condition, it can be quite painful. While it’s not always the main reason arthritis affects our feet, this condition can develop here due to the weight we’re constantly placing on our feet. In total, there are 33 joints in each foot that can be affected by arthritis.
Arthritis can be a potentially crippling and disabling disease. It currently afflicts about 40 million Americans. Although some may be genetically predisposed toward the disorder, potentially anyone, from infancy on throughout life, can develop arthritis.
The prevalence of arthritis does tend to increase with age, with individuals over 50 being the most prone.
Causes of Arthritis
In addition to genetics, several other factors can contribute to the onset of arthritis.
- Injury – Injuries suffered by people like athletes and industrial workers can contribute to arthritis, especially if the injuries are ignored and left untreated.
- Bacterial and viral infections – Microorganisms present in pneumonia, staph infections, gonorrhea, and Lyme disease can potentially lead to the onset of arthritis.
- Bowel disorders – Issues in our digestive systems like colitis and ileitis can contribute to arthritic pain and treating them can bring pain relief.
- Drugs – Certain drugs, both prescription and illegal, can contribute to arthritic pain.
- Congenital autoimmune disease syndrome – Although the relationship is not entirely clear, recent research suggests that a defective gene in the autoimmune system may contribute to osteoarthritis.
When to see a podiatrist
Because arthritis can affect both the structure and function of your feet, it is important to see a podiatrist if you’re suffering any of the following symptoms.
- Any skin changes like rashes and growths on the skin
- Stiffness in the early morning
- Recurring pain or tenderness in a particular joint
- Heat or redness in a joint
- Range of motion problems with a joint
- Swelling in one or more joints
Testing and Types of podiatric treatment
Unfortunately, there is not a cure for arthritis, but with proper podiatric care you can continue your normal daily activities without suffering debilitating pain. Testing and treatment options include:
- X-rays and other imaging to examine the joints
- Physical therapy to promote flexibility
- Orthotic devices or shoes to provide better support
- NSAID (anti-inflammatory) drugs
- Corticosteroid injections
- In extreme cases, surgery to fuse bones or remove inflamed tissue around the joints
Expert arthritic care at Suburban Foot & Ankle Associates
If you’re suffering from arthritic pain in your feet and ankles, and you’re looking for a podiatrist near Plainfield or Bolingbrook for treatment, we urge you to schedule an appointment with the foot care specialists at Suburban Foot & Ankle.
Our podiatric physicians have extensive experience treating multiple conditions related to your legs, feet, and ankles, including arthritic pain. We urge you not to delay in seeking professional foot, ankle, or knee pain treatment in Plainfield, Il.
At your earliest convenience, contact either of our clinics to schedule your initial consultation with the podiatric specialists at Suburban Foot & Ankle Associates.
