Arthritis

What is arthritis?

In podiatry care, arthritis refers to inflammation and degeneration of the joints in your feet. This condition can affect any joint in your foot, including those in your toes, ankles, and midfoot.

At Louisville Foot and Ankle Specialists, the team specializes in podiatry arthritis, focusing on diagnosing, treating, and managing foot-related arthritis. They recognize the unique challenges and impact on mobility that this condition can pose.

Can arthritis be prevented?

Preventing arthritis in your feet isn’t always entirely possible, especially if you have a genetic predisposition or underlying medical conditions. However, certain lifestyle choices can contribute to joint health and potentially reduce your risk of developing arthritis. 

Maintaining a healthy weight, engaging in regular foot exercises, and wearing proper footwear with good arch support can help protect your joints from excessive stress and strain.

What are the symptoms of arthritis?

The symptoms of arthritis in podiatry care are similar to those in other areas of your body. You  may experience:

• Pain
• Swelling
• Stiffness
• Reduced range of motion in the affected joints

As arthritis progresses, mobility can be significantly compromised, making activities like walking or standing painful and challenging. 

The Louisville Foot and Ankle Specialists team pays particular attention to the unique structural aspects of your foot and ankle, considering the impact of arthritis on the intricate network of your bones, ligaments, and tendons.

How is arthritis treated?

Treatment for arthritis in podiatry aims to manage symptoms, improve joint function, and enhance overall foot health. 

Nonpharmacological interventions include physical therapy and the use of orthotic devices to provide additional support and relieve pressure on affected joints. Your provider may also recommend appropriate footwear modifications to accommodate the changes in foot structure associated with arthritis.

Medication management is a common aspect of arthritis treatment in podiatry. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), corticosteroids, and disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs) may be prescribed to alleviate pain, reduce inflammation, and slow down joint degeneration.

In some cases, when conservative measures prove insufficient, surgery may be considered. Surgical interventions can range from joint fusion to joint replacement, depending on the severity of the arthritis and the impact on your mobility and quality of life.

Don’t let arthritis affect your quality of life. Book an evaluation with the Louisville Foot and Ankle Specialists team by calling or booking an appointment online today.