What is arthritis?
Arthritis is a collection of over 100 diseases that cause inflammation and pain in your joints. While most people think of osteoarthritis, the degenerative condition, many other forms of arthritis could be causing your foot and ankle pain.
Osteoarthritis
Osteoarthritis is the most common form of arthritis, which is why it’s so well known. It’s a degenerative condition that develops as the cartilage — which cushions the ends of your bones where they meet in a joint — degrades and ultimately wears away. Without cartilage, your bones rub together and create friction, which leads to inflammation, stiffness, and pain.
Rheumatoid arthritis (RA)
RA is the second-most common form of arthritis but affects your joints differently. RA is an autoimmune disease where your immune system mistakenly attacks the synovial lining in your joints, triggering the inflammatory response that brings swelling, pain, and stiffness.
Gout
Gout is a less common form of arthritis but causes significant pain in your big toe and foot. It develops when your body distributes excess uric acid crystals into the joints of your big toe. It causes swelling and excruciating pain.
What causes arthritis?
The exact cause of arthritis isn’t known. There’s a hereditary factor, so if your parents or other members of your family have arthritis, your chances of developing the same condition increase. Some of the risk factors for osteoarthritis include:
- Your age: The older you get, the higher your chances
- Your sex: Women are more likely than men
- Your weight: Being overweight or obese increases the wear and tear on your joints
- Joint injuries: Past injuries can lead to arthritis symptoms
How does a podiatrist treat arthritis?
If you’re living with pain or stiffness in your feet and ankles, especially if it’s affecting your mobility and disrupting your life, you should contact the team at Rocky Mountain Foot and Ankle Center. The experts offer comprehensive diagnostic exams to identify the condition causing your pain.
The team can prescribe custom orthotics to support your feet and relieve your pain. They’ll also monitor your gait, as arthritis can disrupt your stride, and an uneven gait can lead to other painful foot issues.
If your feet and ankles hurt, call or make an appointment online today.
