Arthritis Can Cause Severe Foot Pain & Stiffness
The pain and stiffness of various types of arthritis can not only make it difficult to bend your ankles and toes but also can make just standing and walking without pain difficult or impossible.
You have over 30 joints in each foot where arthritis can develop, and the various types may have different treatments, so be sure to see your foot doctor for the correct diagnosis and treatment.
The types of arthritis that can cause pain and stiffness in the feet and ankles include the following:
Osteoarthritis—This is age-related arthritis that affects everyone eventually. The joints' lining just can't perform its job correctly and wears out from all the use and abuse over the years.
RA (rheumatoid arthritis)— An improper immune response causes this type of arthritis. Your own body attacks your cushioning cartilage between the joints as an intruder leading to crippling pain and stiffness.
Injury induced arthritis—The joint pain and stiffness of arthritis are also more likely to develop in previously injured components, especially if those injuries were not properly treated. For example, poorly treated ankle sprains can lead to reinjury and chronic ankle instability, stiffness, and pain.
Fortunately, scheduling an appointment with your foot doctor for physical therapy to get correctly sized and fitted for the right footwear can significantly improve arthritic foot problems.
If you are experiencing the pain and stiffness of arthritis in your feet, see your podiatrist for the proper treatment. James C. Ricketti, DPM of Hamilton Square, NJ (in Mercer County), is a board-certified podiatrist providing state of the art diagnostic and treatment options for all types of foot and ankle injuries, diseases, and deformities. From hammertoes and bunions to diabetic foot problems and sports injuries, you can rest assured that Dr. Ricketti and his staff will get you back on your feet as fast as possible. Please contact our office with any questions or to schedule an appointment. Call 609-587-1674.