Arthritis

What is arthritis?

Arthritis comes in a variety of forms, but it’s generally described as inflammation and swelling in your joints. Your feet are more susceptible to arthritis than other parts of the body, partly because each foot has 33 joints and your feet bear the weight of your body.

Arthritis tends to run in families. Although the condition is more common in older adults, arthritis can strike at nearly any age. Arthritic feet can hinder your mobility and independence, but early diagnosis and proper medical care can help significantly.

What are the types of arthritis?

Arthritis comes in many forms. Here are some of the most common types:

Osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis, the most common type of arthritis, is caused by wear and tear on your joints and cartilage. Typical symptoms include dull, throbbing nighttime pain and difficulty walking.

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA)

RA is the most severe form of arthritis and can be crippling. A complex, chronic inflammatory system of diseases, rheumatoid arthritis can cause lengthy morning stiffness, fatigue, and weight loss.

Gout (gouty arthritis)

Gout is a condition caused by acid buildup in your joints. Gouty arthritis can be excruciating, and the most common location for it is in the joint in your big toe.

Psoriatic arthritis

Commonly thought of as a skin disorder, psoriasis affects your joints as well. This form of arthritis may be mild and involve only a few joints, especially the ones at the end of your fingers or toes.

Traumatic arthritis

Traumatic arthritis is caused by blunt, penetrating, or repeated trauma that damages cartilage.  The cartilage damage eventually leads to the formation of arthritis in your joints.

When should I see a doctor about arthritis?

Contact Eastside Foot & Ankle if you notice any of the following changes in your feet:

• Recurring pain or tenderness in any joint
• Joint swelling
• Heat or redness in a joint
• Limited movement of a joint
• Early morning stiffness
• Skin changes, including rashes and growths

Although arthritis isn’t curable, the Eastside Foot & Ankle team helps you to enjoy a better quality of life by controlling pain and inflammation and preserving your ability to maintain an active life.

Get the effective treatment you deserve today by calling the board-certified podiatrists at Eastside Foot & Ankle or booking a consultation online.