Arthritis is one of the most common chronic pain conditions in the United States — impacting nearly 59 million people. And though you’re likely most familiar with arthritis attacking the hands, hips, and knees, arthritis can creep into other areas of your body, including your feet.
Here, podiatric expert Dr. Kelly Geoghan dives deeper into foot arthritis and equips you with simple strategies to manage it.
There are more than 100 different types of arthritis. The three most common are osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and gout.
Osteoarthritis develops when cartilage (the cushioning tissue in your joints) wears down over time. If this happens in your feet, the bones rub against one another causing pain and inflammation.
Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune condition that attacks the healthy cells in your joints. In your feet and ankles, RA goes after synovium — the lining in your joints — and causes your ankles and knuckles to become red and swollen. RA can also attack your foot and ankle ligaments and weaken your bones, which can lead to fractures.
Gout is a type of arthritis that occurs when an excess amount of uric acid accumulates in your body and leads to harmful crystalization in your joints — typically your big toe.
No matter where your arthritis comes from, there are many ways for you to manage your symptoms and take steps toward a pain-free life.
Although there’s no cure for arthritis yet, there are many ways to alleviate the pain and stiffness it causes, including several you can do yourself.
Stretching is one of the best things you can do for arthritic feet that have become stiff and swollen. Begin by facing a wall with your palms placed flat against it. Step one foot back and then lean forward, doing your best to keep your heels on the floor. This stretch targets your Achilles tendon and calf.
Another stretch for arthritic feet involves looping a thick rubber exercise band around your toes and pulling them gently toward you. Hold these stretches for a few seconds and then repeat.
Though whole-body workouts are great for your overall health, we’re talking about exercises for your feet — the toe curl, for example.
Try to pick up small objects like marbles with your toes. This and other exercises work to keep your feet strong and help support your joints.
When arthritis plagues your feet, the best way to manage your painful symptoms is to choose the right shoes to comfort and support them. Keep these things in mind when searching for your next pair of shoes:
It’s also a good idea to talk with a professional salesperson to get advice on which shoes offer the most support.
The simplest adjustments in your routine can have a huge impact on the way you manage symptoms. We encourage you and all our patients with arthritis to avoid activity that triggers a flare-up and opt for low-impact exercises, such as yoga and tai chi, over those that jar your joints.
One of the best things you can do for arthritic feet is manage your weight. Your feet (and the joints in them) bear much of your body weight. Lose a few pounds and you effectively relieve pressure on your damaged joints.
Arthritis treatments aren’t one-size-fits-all. That’s why we work with you to find exactly what works best for you. Some of the most common treatments for arthritis include:
We help you create a treatment plan that’s based on your unique situation and tailored to your health and wellness goals.
If you’d like more information, or if you'd like to get started with a treatment plan, don’t hesitate to request an appointment at our Lutherville, Maryland, office today.
