Understanding Arthritis in the Foot and Ankle: Causes, Symptoms, and Types

Arthritis is a broad medical term referencing inflammation that may happen in one or more joints. There are more than a hundred different forms of arthritis, and many have the potential to impact your foot or ankle. According to Dr. My Hoa Kaas and Dr. Jay D. Ryan at the award-winning Virginia Foot and Ankle Center in Fairfax, VA, arthritis in your feet and ankles can make it challenging to complete daily activities and enjoy an active lifestyle. 

Understanding Arthritis in the Foot and Ankle: The Cause and Types

 Arthritis can be painful and, at times, rise to the level of debilitating pain that disrupts one’s quality of life.  If arthritis affects your foot and ankle, it may be caused by - 

• Osteoarthritis refers to degeneration of the cartilage in the joints. 
• Rheumatoid arthritis refers to a specific autoimmune disease that causes your immune system to attack your joints in error, resulting in inflammation and damage.  
• Post-traumatic arthritis refers to a joint issue that is the result of an injury to the joint that causes inflammation and other symptoms.

 Plus, it is best to avoid carrying excessive weight beyond recommended levels.

Symptoms of Foot and Ankle Arthritis

 Arthritis symptoms will potentially vary, depending on the severity of your condition and the impacted joints. Classic symptoms include -

• Pain increases with activity or movement.
• Tenderness surrounding the joint area.
• Stiffness, pain, or swelling after sitting, resting, or inactivity.
• Swelling, warmth, or redness in the joints.
• Difficulty walking or moving.

Arthritic Foot and Ankle Care Treatment Options

 Many people who experience arthritis find that non-surgical techniques can be effective in diminishing symptoms, restoring function, and helping with mobility. 

Non-surgical arthritic foot and ankle care treatment options include:

• Modifying activity choices.
• Using braces for support.
• Corticosteroid injections to reduce swelling.
• Other anti-inflammatory medications.
• Therapeutic stretching and exercises. 

 If the symptoms of arthritis do not improve with conservative therapies, Dr. Kaas and Dr. Ryan offer the latest advancements in surgical techniques that can provide life-changing results with regard to the relief of pain and the restoration of mobility.  

Contact Leading Fairfax, VA, Podiatrists for Arthritic Foot & Ankle Care

 Using the latest diagnostic approaches, our professionals possess the expertise and experience to accurately diagnose arthritis of the foot and ankle and recommend a tailored arthritic foot and ankle care treatment plan.

For more information about treatment options to manage arthritis in the foot and ankle, contact Dr. Kaas, Dr. Ryan, or a staff member of the Virginia Foot and Ankle Center at 703-205-0770.