An estimated 78 million Americans will have doctor-diagnosed arthritis by 2040, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). At Ambulatory Foot & Ankle Clinic, which has locations in Pocatello, Soda Springs, Idaho Falls, and Montpelier, Idaho, as well as two in Thayne and Jackson, Wyoming, expert podiatrists Adam Matthews, DPM, and Karson Howard, DPM, provide targeted arthritis care. The earlier you seek treatment for arthritis, the more likely you are to retain range of motion and mobility in your affected joints. Call Ambulatory Foot & Ankle Clinic or schedule an appointment online today to learn more.
Arthritis is an inflammatory condition characterized by swelling in one or more joints. This chronic and persistent inflammation often results in stiff joints that can limit your mobility. While arthritis typically affects older adults, younger individuals aren’t immune to the condition. Early intervention is the best approach to slow the progression of arthritis in all ages.
With more than 100 known types of arthritis, the condition can affect nearly any joint in your body. The most common types of arthritis include:
As the most prevalent type of arthritis, osteoarthritis (OA) is highly common in older adults. The condition occurs from the gradual breakdown of cartilage, which protects your joints. As the cartilage deteriorates, bones can make contact, and the resulting friction can lead to chronic pain, inflammation, and stiffness in the joints.
Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune disease that affects people of all ages. Although RA can develop anywhere in your body, it’s particularly common in the small joints in the fingers, hands, wrists, feet, and toes.
Gout develops when a buildup of uric acid crystallizes and collects in the joints. This form of arthritis is especially common in the joint at the base of the big toe. Gout often comes on suddenly, causing severe pain, swelling, redness, and limited range of motion.
Symptoms of arthritis can vary from person to person and often depend on the progression of the condition. The most common arthritis symptoms include:
Arthritis symptoms are frequently gradual, but they can develop suddenly. Some individuals experience only minor discomfort, while others have debilitating symptoms.
Anyone can develop arthritis, but the most common risk factors are:
Most types of arthritis are more common in women than men. However, gout is far more prevalent in males.
The podiatrists at Ambulatory Foot & Ankle Clinic offer both conservative and surgical treatments for arthritis of the feet:
Ultrasound therapy is a noninvasive treatment that uses ultrasound energy to repair hard and soft tissue damage without incisions or medication.
Shockwave therapy emits targeted shockwaves into the feet and ankles to stimulate the body’s natural healing response and repair damage within.
Custom-made orthotics are shoe inserts that can cushion and support painful joints to restore your mobility.
If necessary, your podiatrist at Ambulatory Foot & Ankle Clinic can perform surgery to relieve your pain. Depending on the type of arthritis you have, removing small pieces of irritated bone or cartilage may provide relief.
To learn more about arthritis, call Ambulatory Foot & Ankle Clinic or schedule an appointment online today.
