Arthritis Specialist

What is arthritis?

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.

Are there different types of arthritis?

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:

Osteoarthritis

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

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

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.

What are the symptoms of arthritis?

Symptoms of arthritis can vary from person to person and often depend on the progression of the condition. The most common arthritis symptoms include:

• Stiff joints
• Chronic pain
• Stiffness in the affected joint
• Limited range of motion
• Low mobility
• Redness surrounding the joint
• Visible swelling
• Tenderness
• Warmth around the joint

Arthritis symptoms are frequently gradual, but they can develop suddenly. Some individuals experience only minor discomfort, while others have debilitating symptoms.

What causes arthritis?

Anyone can develop arthritis, but the most common risk factors are:

• Repetitive stress on the joints
• Excess weight
• Structural deformities
• Autoimmune diseases
• Viral infections
• Lack of exercise
• Advanced age

Most types of arthritis are more common in women than men. However, gout is far more prevalent in males.

What are the treatments for arthritis?

The podiatrists at Ambulatory Foot & Ankle Clinic offer both conservative and surgical treatments for arthritis of the feet:

Ultrasound therapy

Ultrasound therapy is a noninvasive treatment that uses ultrasound energy to repair hard and soft tissue damage without incisions or medication.

Shockwave therapy

Shockwave therapy emits targeted shockwaves into the feet and ankles to stimulate the body’s natural healing response and repair damage within.

Orthotics

Custom-made orthotics are shoe inserts that can cushion and support painful joints to restore your mobility.

Surgery

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.