Limited mobility due to foot and ankle arthritis can be demoralizing. The reality of potentially life-altering joint pain and cartilage issues can lead any arthritis patient scrambling for any relief.
Arriving at a potential remedy is accomplished easier by having an understanding of what exactly causes this pain. Truthfully, arthritis is an umbrella term for over 100 chronic conditions identified by certain physical factors and symptoms.
What Is Arthritis?
Arthritis directly involves swelling and stiffness around the joints of the body. The word arthritis means inflammation of the joints when referencing the language elements of the word. Over time the joints of the body begin to deteriorate, and the cartilage that cushions these joints wears away.
The loss of cartilage leads to bones grinding against each other, and this grinding leads to the loss of bone tissue, ultimately causing the loss of mobility and joint function.
Why Does Arthritis Cause Foot and Ankle Pain?
For a disease that attacks the joints and bones of the body, the foot and ankle area could be considered an easy target. Each of your feet contains 28 separate bones and over 30 joints, and this high number of bones and joints leads to an incredibly high potential for pain.
This pain is widespread in the large joint where the ankle and shinbone meet. There are also three critical joints on the heel, the inner foot bone and the outer foot bone.
The most common symptoms of ankle and foot arthritis are:
- Stiffness and decreased range of motion in the foot or ankle
- Severe tenderness and elevated levels of pain
- Severe swelling in the upper foot/ankle/lower leg area
- Losing the ability to stand for longer than a few minutes
- Deformity of the ankle and foot
Relieving Foot and Ankle Pain Without Surgery
There is potential relief without surgery for people who suffer from foot and ankle arthritis. Maintaining a healthy weight is crucial. Damaged bones and joints in the ankle and foot cannot maintain the body’s weight when obesity is an issue. Custom-made shoes or braces for the ankle and foot can be ordered to provide additional support.
Arthritis patients may also find additional relief by:
- Using a cane to minimize stress on the ankle and foot
- Taking anti-inflammatory medications such as Ibuprofen
- Receiving steroid injections in the affected area
- Taking advantage of physical therapy
Taking advantage of these methods may provide relief and prolong the need for surgery. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle and diet are vital elements against the fight against arthritis. Regular appointments and doctor visits ensure you’re taking the best course of action.
Do you have a concern? Contact your HROSM orthopaedic specialist at (757) 873-1554 for further steps to take to address your issues.
