Are you one of the 60 million adults worldwide that suffer from arthritis?
When arthritis affects the joints of the foot it can produce swelling and pain, progressing in some cases to deformity, loss of joint function, and decreased ability to walk.
What is arthritis?
Arthritis which refers to joint inflammation is not one disease alone but actually an umbrella term for more than 100 conditions that effect the joints of the body such as the ankles. Some of the more common forms of arthritis and those specific to podiatry are Osteoarthritis, Rheumatoid arthritis and Gout.
Osteoarthritis
Osteoarthritis is a degenerative form of arthritis and is known as the most common. Certain life factors including excess weight, family history, your age and your previous and ongoing injuries can cause you to develop osteoarthritis. Over time the cartilage on the ends of our bones wears down, however the above factors can exasperate this causing the cartilage to wear away. When this happens the bones start to rub against each other instead cause pain, swelling and stiffness.
Rheumatoid Arthritis
Inflammatory arthritis such as rheumatoid arthritis occurs when the immune system is not functioning effectively and mistakenly attacks the joints causing joint erosion. Research has shown that rheumatoid arthritis is due to a combination of genetics and environmental factors such as smoking.
Gout
Gout is caused when high levels of uric acid builds up and the body can not get rid of it quick enough. This build up of uric acid can form crystal shaped needles in the joints causing severe swelling and pain. Most commonly, these crystals form in the feet and toes.
Why see a Podiatrist
It is important to know what form of arthritis is affecting your foot. Our podiatrist’s can determine this and advise on how to minimize discomfort in the affected joints.
Unfortunately, it is not a matter of curing the arthritis; it is about making each step of the day comfortable.
If you have any questions about Arthritis,
go to our Contact Us page, or call us on 5441 4822
