What Is Foot and Ankle Arthritis?
Arthritis is a general term for inflammation and degeneration within a joint. In the foot and ankle, arthritis may affect the ankle joint, midfoot, big toe joint, subtalar joint, or smaller toe joints. Over time, cartilage can wear down, causing bones to rub together and producing pain, stiffness, swelling, and reduced range of motion.
Common Types
Osteoarthritis is the wear-and-tear form of arthritis that often develops with age, previous injury, repetitive stress, or abnormal foot mechanics. Post-traumatic arthritis can occur after fractures, sprains, or joint injuries. Inflammatory arthritis, such as rheumatoid arthritis or psoriatic arthritis, may affect multiple joints and can create swelling, deformity, and flare-ups. Gout can also cause sudden, severe joint pain, often around the big toe.
Symptoms
Arthritis symptoms can include aching joint pain, stiffness after rest, swelling, warmth, tenderness, difficulty walking, reduced motion, grinding sensations, and pain that worsens with activity. Some patients notice that shoes become uncomfortable because of swelling or changes in joint shape.
Diagnosis
Dr. Suh evaluates the location of pain, joint motion, swelling, gait, foot structure, and prior injury history. Imaging such as X-rays may be used to assess joint space narrowing, bone spurs, alignment changes, or old injuries. In some cases, lab work or coordination with a primary care doctor or rheumatologist may be appropriate.
Treatment at DFW Foot and Ankle
Arthritis treatment is designed to reduce pain, improve function, and slow progression when possible. Options may include supportive footwear, custom orthotics, bracing, activity modification, anti-inflammatory medication when appropriate, injections, MLS laser therapy, physical therapy, and shock wave therapy for related soft-tissue pain. For advanced arthritis that does not respond to conservative care, Dr. Suh can discuss surgical options or referral pathways.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can arthritis in the foot be cured?
Arthritis usually cannot be fully reversed, but symptoms can often be managed well with the right treatment plan.
Do custom orthotics help arthritis?
Yes. Orthotics can improve alignment, reduce pressure on painful joints, and support more efficient movement.
Is surgery always necessary?
No. Many patients improve with conservative treatment. Surgery is considered only when pain and joint damage significantly limit daily life.