What is Arthritis???:

Arthritis encompasses a diverse spectrum of more than 100 conditions characterized by joint pain, stiffness, and inflammation. Among these, osteoarthritis stands out as the most prevalent, occurring when the protective cartilage cushioning your bones gradually deteriorates over time, typically due to aging. As this cartilage diminishes, bones may start to frictionally interact, leading to impaired mobility and a diminished quality of life.

While there's no foolproof method to entirely prevent arthritis, adopting a healthy lifestyle can significantly mitigate your risk factors.

The symptoms of foot and ankle Arthritis typically include::

Tenderness

Pain

Reduced mobility or difficulty walking

Stiffness

Swelling

As arthritis progresses, you may experience challenges with exercising, working, or performing daily tasks.

Step 2When should I seek medical attention for Arthritis?:

If you're experiencing persistent foot or ankle pain that doesn't alleviate with home remedies such as rest, ice, or over-the-counter pain medication, it's advisable to schedule an appointment with a a medical professional. This is particularly important if you notice accompanying symptoms such as swelling, bruising, or difficulties with mobility. At Equinox Foot and Ankle, we specialize in addressing such concerns and providing tailored care to alleviate your discomfort. Don't hesitate to reach out for an appointment.

Diagnosis of Arthritis:

To diagnose arthritis, your healthcare provider at Equinox Foot and Ankle initiates the process by thoroughly reviewing your medical history and inquiring about your symptoms. They'll delve into details such as when the pain commenced, whether it intensifies during specific activities like work, and the nature of the discomfort you're experiencing.

Following this, a comprehensive physical examination is conducted, focusing on your feet, toes, and ankles to identify signs of swelling or bruising. Your provider assesses your range of motion, evaluates reflexes, and may ask you to walk around the examination room to observe any gait abnormalities.

Additionally, your provider may order imaging tests such as X-rays or a CT scan to obtain a closer look at your bones and joints, aiding in the confirmation and characterization of the arthritis.

Treatment options for Arthritis:

Treatment for foot and ankle arthritis is multifaceted, tailored to individual factors such as age, arthritis type, and symptom severity. At Equinox Foot and Ankle, our skilled providers typically advocate for conservative approaches including:

Weight management to alleviate stress on joints.

Custom orthotics and supportive inserts to optimize foot and ankle alignment.

Physical therapy to enhance strength, flexibility, and joint function.

Joint-supporting braces to stabilize affected areas.

Pain management with appropriate medications.

Corticosteroid injections to reduce inflammation and pain.

Should conservative measures fail to provide relief over a few weeks or months, surgical intervention may be recommended. Surgical procedures involve the precise removal of diseased or damaged bone and joint portions, followed by prosthetic replacements, aiming to restore mobility and enhance range of motion.

To explore tailored treatment options for arthritis and embark on your journey to improved foot and ankle health, schedule an appointment at Equinox Foot and Ankle today. Contact us at 1-855-TOE-FOOT or conveniently book online.