What is Arthritis?
Arthritis is the inflammation and swelling of the cartilage and lining of the joints, often accompanied by an increase in joint fluid. Like a sore throat, which can result from many different illnesses, arthritis can develop from a variety of causes and is associated with numerous medical conditions.
Feet are particularly susceptible to arthritis because each foot contains 33 joints, all of which bear significant weight. This makes foot joints especially prone to pain and inflammation.
Arthritis is a common and sometimes disabling condition, affecting nearly 40 million Americans. Some forms of arthritis may be hereditary, and while the risk increases with age, people of all ages—from infancy to middle age—can be affected. Adults over 50 are most commonly diagnosed.
Arthritic feet can limit mobility and independence, but early diagnosis and proper treatment can help manage symptoms, improve function, and maintain a better quality of life.
Causes
Besides heredity, arthritic symptoms may arise in a number of ways:
- Foot injuries, especially untreated ones, can lead to arthritis.
- Bacterial and viral infections, including pneumonia, gonorrhea, staph, and Lyme disease, may cause joint inflammation.
- Inflammatory bowel diseases like colitis and ileitis can trigger arthritis in the ankles and toes.
- Certain prescription or illegal drugs can induce arthritis.
- Congenital autoimmune conditions and genetic factors may contribute to osteoarthritis.
Types and Symptoms
- Osteoarthritis: The most common form, also called “wear and tear” arthritis or degenerative joint disease. It usually develops gradually as cartilage breaks down with age, though injury can trigger it suddenly. Symptoms include dull, throbbing pain—especially at night—muscle weakness, and difficulty walking. Extra weight can worsen foot osteoarthritis by putting added stress on multiple joints, sometimes leading to bone spurs.
- Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA): A serious, chronic inflammatory disease that often affects small joints symmetrically, such as both ankles or hands. Symptoms include morning stiffness, fatigue, weight loss, and potential involvement of the eyes, lungs, heart, and nervous system. RA alternates between flare-ups and remission, and can cause joint deformity and loss of motion. Women are three to four times more likely to be affected than men.
- Gout (Gouty Arthritis): Caused by a buildup of uric acid in the joints, most commonly the big toe. Gout attacks are extremely painful and may be triggered by diet, heredity, or certain proteins in foods. Men are more frequently affected than women.
- Psoriatic Arthritis: Occurs in some people with psoriasis, affecting joints as well as skin and nails. About 1 in 20 people with psoriasis develops joint symptoms, often in the fingers or toes. Arthritis may worsen when skin symptoms flare.
- Traumatic Arthritis: Results from joint injuries, including sprains, fractures, or repeated trauma. Damage to the cartilage from injury can lead to arthritic changes over time, causing pain, stiffness, and limited motion.
When to Visit a Podiatrist
Because arthritis can affect the structure and function of the feet, it is important to see a doctor of podiatric medicine if any of the following symptoms occur in the feet:
- Swelling in one or more joints
- Recurring pain or tenderness in any joint
- Redness or heat in a joint
- Limitation in motion of joint
- Early morning stiffness
- Skin changes, including rashes and growths
Diagnosis and Treatment
Early diagnosis is crucial. Treatment focuses on controlling inflammation, preserving joint function, and relieving pain. Options include:
- Education, physical therapy, and exercise
- Medications, including anti-inflammatories like aspirin
- Orthotics, braces, or supportive footwear
- Surgical intervention in severe cases, including joint replacement
At Ashton Podiatry, our specialists provide personalized care to manage arthritis, reduce pain, and improve foot function. Contact our Dallas or Plano office to schedule an evaluation.
