Osteoarthritis in the Feet

Arthritis is a medical condition that causes the breakdown and eventual loss of cartilage in the joints. This can lead to pain, swelling, stiffness, and difficulty moving the affected joints. Osteoarthritis, which is associated with aging, is the most common type of arthritis and often affects the joints of the feet and ankles. Because of the pain and discomfort caused by osteoarthritis and the effect that it can have on mobility, it is important to seek treatment. Common treatments for arthritis include oral medications to reduce pain and inflammation, wearing orthotics in the shoes to cushion the feet and minimize pain, bracing or immobilizing affected joints, steroid injections directly into the affected joints to reduce inflammation, and physical therapy. If you believe you may have osteoarthritis in the feet, a chiropodist can help you manage this condition. 

Osteoarthritis in the feet or ankles can be a painful and disabling condition that may interfere with your daily activities. If you have arthritis, please consult with one of the specialists from Thornhill Foot Clinic. Our chiropodists will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment. 

What Is Osteoarthritis? 

Osteoarthritis is a condition in which the protective layer of cartilage in the joints breaks down over time. This loss of cartilage causes the bones to rub together during movement, leading to pain and inflammation. Osteoarthritis is associated with aging, and often affects the small joints of the feet and ankles. 

Symptoms

Symptoms of osteoarthritis include: 

• Joint pain

• Joint stiffness

• Swelling in or around the joint

• Restricted range of motion

• Difficulty walking

Diagnosis

Osteoarthritis can be diagnosed through physical examination. You may also need to have an X-ray taken to assess the extent of the damage caused by arthritis. 

Treatment

Treatment for osteoarthritis focuses on reducing symptoms and improving the function of the affected joints. Conservative treatments include oral pain medications, orthotic devices, bracing or immobilizing the affected foot or ankle, steroid injections into the affected joint to reduce inflammation, and physical therapy. In more severe cases, surgery may be necessary. 

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs