Your feet and ankles support you every day, carrying you through life’s routine activities. But have you been feeling pain, stiffness, or swelling that refuses to go away?
These symptoms might be due to arthritis in the feet and ankles. Understanding the signs can help you get the right treatment and improve your quality of life.
Arthritis in the feet and ankles is common and can affect any of the 30+ joints present in this area.
Let us explore the symptoms of arthritis in the feet and ankles that indicate the need to see a foot specialist and possible treatments for the arthritis in the feet and ankles.
What Is Arthritis in Feet and Ankles
Arthritis is inflammation of your joints, leading to pain, swelling, and reduced mobility. When it affects your feet and ankles, daily activities like walking, running, or even standing can become challenging.
Arthritis can develop over time due to age, injuries, or certain medical conditions. There are different types of arthritis, including osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, gout, and post-traumatic arthritis, all of which can impact the joints in your feet and ankles differently.
Signs and Symptoms of Arthritis in Feet and Ankles
Arthritis often develops gradually, but recognizing the signs early can help you seek appropriate treatment and manage symptoms effectively.
Here are key symptoms of arthritis in the feet and ankles to watch for.
Joint Pain
Pain is the most common and noticeable symptom of arthritis. It can range from a dull, persistent ache to sharp, intense discomfort. Pain typically worsens during physical activities like walking or running, but it may also occur while at rest, signaling potential joint damage.
Stiffness
Arthritis can limit the range of motion in affected joints, making it difficult to move them freely. Stiffness is often more pronounced in the morning or after prolonged inactivity, such as sitting or lying down, and may improve slightly with movement.
Swelling
Inflammation around the joints can lead to noticeable swelling, which may make shoes feel tighter. The area around the joints may also feel tender to the touch and more sensitive to pressure. Persistent swelling could be a sign of worsening arthritis.
Decreased Mobility
As arthritis progresses, it can interfere with the daily use of your feet and ankles, making it painful or difficult to perform everyday tasks such as standing, walking, or climbing stairs. Reduced mobility can also lead to muscle weakness over time.
Warmth and Redness
Inflamed joints may feel warm when you touch them, and the skin around the area could appear red or discolored. This symptom indicates increased blood flow to the area due to inflammation.
Changes in Gait
Pain and stiffness in the feet and ankles can affect the way you walk, leading to limping or an uneven gait. Over time, this can put additional stress on other joints, such as the knees, hips, or lower back.
If you notice these symptoms lasting more than a week or interfering with your daily life, it is important to consult a healthcare provider. Searching for a foot specialist can connect you with professionals who can help.
Diagnosis of Arthritis in Feet and Ankles
To diagnose arthritis in feet and ankles, a foot specialist will perform a physical exam and may use the following diagnostic tools.
Imaging Tests
An X-ray, MRI, or CT scan can help identify joint damage and inflammation.
Blood Tests
Blood tests may check for autoimmune markers or high levels of uric acid if gout is suspected.
Gait Analysis
Your provider may watch how you walk to identify changes caused by arthritis.
Treatment Options for Arthritis in Feet and Ankles
The goal of arthritis treatment is to reduce pain, improve joint function, and prevent further damage. Possible treatments for arthritis in feet and ankles include the following.
Non-Surgical Treatments
The non-surgical treatments for feet and ankle arthritis include the following.
Medications
Over-the-counter medications like ibuprofen or naproxen (Advil, Aleve) can reduce pain and inflammation. Prescription corticosteroids may also be given for the treatment of arthritis in the feet and ankles.
Physical Therapy
Exercise can help improve strength, flexibility, and range of motion in your feet and ankles.
Orthotics
Custom shoe inserts or supportive footwear can reduce stress on your affected joints.
Hot and Cold Therapy
Applying heat or ice packs can help relieve stiffness and pain.
Surgical Options
If non-surgical treatments do not provide relief, surgery may be recommended for arthritis in feet and ankles. Surgical options include joint fusion, joint replacement, or arthroscopy to clean out damaged tissue.
Your arthritis doctor will assess your condition and recommend the most suitable procedure.
Treatment for Arthritis in Feet and Ankles in North Dakota
Arthritis in feet and ankles can be a frustrating condition, but with the right care, you can manage your symptoms and improve your quality of life. Do not ignore foot pain — waiting too long could make treatment more challenging.
At The Bone & Joint Center, our foot specialists are here to help you find relief. We offer tailored orthopedic treatment plans to address arthritis and other foot and ankle conditions. With expert care and personalized solutions, we help you get back to doing the activities you love.
Contact us today at (701) 946-7400 / (866) 900-8650 or fill out our appointment request form to schedule a consultation and take the first step toward healthier, pain-free feet. We look forward to serving you!
