What Is Foot or Ankle Arthritis?
Arthritis in the foot or ankle refers to stiffness and inflammation in the joints. Several types of arthritis can be present in the foot or ankle joints including osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, post-traumatic arthritis, infectious arthritis, psoriatic arthritis, or gout.
Causes of Foot or Ankle Arthritis
Foot or ankle arthritis is caused by various factors including age, injury, overuse over an extended period, or injury.
Symptoms of Foot or Ankle Arthritis
Foot and ankle arthritis symptoms include:
- Pain
- Swelling
- Inflammation
- Stiffness
- Reduced mobility
Walking and general activities can be challenging when arthritis symptoms, depending on the level of severity.
Diagnosing Foot or Ankle Arthritis
Arthritis is diagnosed by a medical professional who will perform a physical examination and take detailed notes regarding your medical history. Imaging is usually performed to confirm the diagnosis, assess the severity, and determine the treatment. X-rays, musculoskeletal ultrasounds, MRI, and ultrasounds may be ordered. Sometimes blood tests may be ordered to aid in the diagnosis of specific types of arthritis or to assist in ruling out other diagnoses. Joint aspiration (arthrocentesis) may be used to remove some fluid from the affected joint for analysis. This can help identify the presence of things like infection, inflammation, or crystals associated with gout. Based on their findings, your medical professional will make a diagnosis and give you the best treatment for your specific condition and symptoms.
Treatment for Foot or Ankle Arthritis
The type of treatment depends on the type of arthritis you have. Over-the-counter pain relievers can help reduce pain and inflammation. If your arthritis is severe, your provider may prescribe certain medications such as stronger pain relievers or drugs that help manage symptoms and slow progression. This is typically the case for rheumatoid arthritis. Corticosteroids can be injected into the affected joint to reduce your pain and inflammation if other pain relievers don’t seem to be helping. Hyaluronic acid may also be used to help lubricate the joint. Other treatments might include physical therapy or orthotics. If arthritis is severe, surgical options such as joint replacement, joint fusion, or arthroscopic procedures may be recommended.