Arthritis and Osteoarthritis Specialists
Pain, stiffness, and reduced range of motion are among the significant signs of arthritis that have sufferers searching for solutions. Arthritis, a blanket term used for joint inflammation, can result in damage to the cartilage and bones of the foot and ankle. As symptoms develop, they can significantly restrict your ability to easily perform daily activities. Arthritis in your lower joints often causes them to hurt when you try to walk or put weight on them. Arthritic joints can also experience increased pain and swelling after long periods of rest, like sleeping. If you are experiencing joint tenderness upon touch, warmth, pain, and stiffness in your foot and ankle joints, it is time to see a foot and ankle specialist.
Arthritis is Common in Adults
Osteoarthritis is the most common type of arthritis and can affect various joints throughout the body, including the hips, knees, shoulders, and spine. This condition results from joint degeneration, typically seen in older adults, where the cartilage wears away with use. Over time, the space between bones decreases, leading to painful bone-on-bone rubbing. The risk of osteoarthritis increases with factors such as obesity, previous joint injuries, and genetics.
Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic, inflammatory autoimmune disease where the immune system mistakenly attacks healthy tissue and joints, causing damage to bones and cartilage. Over time, RA can lead to joint deformities and significant functional limitations.
Treating Your Arthritis
Treatment for arthritis depends on the type and severity of the condition. Physical therapy is often beneficial in managing arthritis symptoms and can help slow the progression of the disease. For osteoarthritis, lifestyle changes such as weight loss, regular exercise, and stretching can significantly improve symptom relief. For rheumatoid arthritis (RA), therapy is commonly combined with anti-inflammatory medications, steroids, and immunosuppressive drugs. Walking is recommended for all types of arthritis to keep the joints moving, improve flexibility, and enhance bone and overall health.
In some cases, surgery may be necessary to relieve arthritis pain. Surgical options include arthroscopic surgery, fusion surgery, or joint replacement surgery. Arthroscopic surgery is minimally invasive and allows the surgeon to clean the joint, removing bone spurs or cartilage fragments to improve joint function. Fusion surgery is used for severe joint damage, where pins or plates are used to permanently secure two bones together, providing increased stability. Total joint replacement surgery involves removing the damaged bone and cartilage and replacing them with an artificial implant to restore joint function.
Symptoms of Foot and Ankle Arthritis
Arthritis in the foot and ankle usually develops gradually, so the earliest signs are easy to dismiss. Because the foot and ankle contain 33 joints, arthritis can appear almost anywhere — the big toe, the midfoot, and the ankle itself are the most common sites. See a specialist if you notice:
• Joint pain that worsens with activity or after long periods of rest
• Stiffness that is most noticeable first thing in the morning
• Swelling, warmth, or redness around a joint
• A grinding or clicking sensation as the joint moves
• Reduced flexibility or difficulty walking on uneven ground
• Pain that flares with changes in the weather
What Causes Arthritis in the Foot and Ankle?
Arthritis in the foot and ankle usually develops gradually, so the earliest signs are easy to dismiss. Because the foot and ankle contain 33 joints, arthritis can appear almost anywhere — the big toe, the midfoot, and the ankle itself are the most common sites. See a specialist if you notice:
When to See a Podiatrist for Joint Pain
Schedule an evaluation if joint pain lasts more than a few weeks, limits your daily activities, or comes with visible swelling or deformity. Early intervention can slow cartilage loss and help you avoid more invasive treatment later. Our board-certified specialists serve patients across Murray, Draper, Tooele, and the greater Salt Lake City area, and we can usually see new patients within 48 hours.
Frequently Asked Questions about foot arthritis
Can arthritis in the feet be reversed?
Cartilage damage cannot be undone, but the right combination of activity changes, supportive footwear, custom orthotics, medication, and when needed, injections can dramatically reduce pain and slow its progression.
Is walking good for foot arthritis?
Yes. Low-impact movement keeps joints lubricated and the surrounding muscles strong. We can recommend supportive shoes and orthotics that make walking more comfortable.
Will I need surgery?
Most patients never do. Surgery is reserved for severe cases that no longer respond to conservative care, and options range from minimally invasive joint cleanup to fusion or joint replacement.
Don’t let foot or ankle pain keep you from the things you love. Rocky Mountain Foot & Ankle has board-certified podiatrists in Murray, Draper, and Tooele serving patients across the Salt Lake City area. Call 801-261-1391 or request an appointment online. We get you in quickly, and appointments are always available.
Diabetic Foot Conditions
Diabetic foot conditions, such as neuropathy, poor circulation, and infections, are common complications of diabetes. These issues can lead to ulcers, wounds, and even amputations if left untreated. Early detection, proper care, and management are essential to prevent severe outcomes.
Take the Leap Toward Wellness
An investment in your health is an investment in your quality of life.
