Arthritis is inflammation and swelling of the cartilage and lining of the joints, generally accompanied by an increase in fluid in the joints. With 33 joints and 26 bones in each foot, foot arthritis is often more noticeable than arthritis elsewhere. Symptoms can develop in any of the many small joints throughout the foot and ankle.
Arthritis is a disabling and occasionally crippling disease. In some forms, it appears to have hereditary tendencies. While the prevalence of arthritis increases with age, all people from infancy to middle age can be affected. People over 50 are the primary targets.
Arthritic feet can result in loss of mobility and independence but that may be avoided with early diagnosis and proper care from a podiatrist experienced in arthritis management.
Foot Arthritis Symptoms
Because arthritis can affect the structure and function of the feet, it is important to see a podiatrist if any of the following symptoms occur:
- Swelling in one or more joints
- Recurring pain or tenderness in any joint
- Redness or heat in a joint
- Limitation in motion of a joint
- Early morning stiffness
- Skin changes, including rashes and growths
Foot Arthritis Causes
Besides heredity, arthritic symptoms may arise in several ways:
- Injuries — notably in athletes and industrial workers, especially if the injuries have been ignored (which foot injuries tend to be)
- Bacterial and viral infections — that strike the joints — the same organisms present in pneumonia, gonorrhea, staph infections, and Lyme disease can cause joint inflammation
- In conjunction with bowel disorders (such as colitis and ileitis), frequently resulting in arthritic conditions in the joints of the ankles and toes. Treating the underlying disorder can relieve arthritic pain
- Drug-induced — both prescription drugs and illegal substances can induce arthritis
Forms of Arthritis
Osteoarthritis
- The most common form of arthritis, it is frequently called degenerative joint disease or “wear and tear” arthritis. Although it can be brought on suddenly by an injury, its onset is generally gradual.
- Ageing brings on a breakdown in cartilage, and pain gets progressively more severe, although it can be relieved with rest.
- Dull, throbbing night-time pain is characteristic and may be accompanied by muscle weakness or deterioration.
- Walking may become erratic. It’s a particular problem for the feet when people are overweight, simply because there are so many joints in each foot — the additional weight contributes to cartilage deterioration and the development of bone spurs.
Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA)
- A major crippling disorder and perhaps the most serious form of arthritis. It is a complex, chronic inflammatory disease, often affecting more than a dozen smaller joints during the course of the disease (frequently in a symmetrical pattern — such as both ankles or the index fingers of both hands).
- It is often accompanied by lengthy morning stiffness, fatigue, weight loss, and may affect various systems of the body including the eyes, lungs, heart, and nervous system.
- Women are three to four times more likely than men to suffer RA.
- RA has a much more acute onset than osteoarthritis and is characterised by alternating periods of remission and exacerbation. Serious joint deformity and loss of motion frequently result from acute RA.
Gout
- Gouty arthritis is a condition caused by a build-up of uric acid in the joints.
- A single big toe joint is commonly the affected area, possibly because it is subject to so much pressure during walking.
- Attacks of gouty arthritis are extremely painful — perhaps more so than any other form of arthritis.
- Men are much more likely to be affected than women.
- While a rich diet containing lots of red meat, rich sauces, shellfish, and alcohol is popularly associated with gout, other protein compounds in foods such as lentils and beans may also play a role.
How We Treat It
The objectives in foot arthritis treatment are controlling inflammation, preserving joint function (or restoring it if lost) and managing the underlying disease where possible. With the foot being a frequent early target, a podiatrist is often the first practitioner to encounter some of the complaints and symptoms, even bunions can be manifestations of arthritis.
At Highett Podiatry, our approach to arthritis foot care may include:
- Comprehensive assessment — including gait analysis, joint range of motion testing, and imaging referral where required
- Patient education — understanding your specific form of arthritis and how it’s affecting your feet
- Physical therapy and exercise programs — to maintain joint mobility and muscle strength
- Custom orthotics — to redistribute load away from affected joints and reduce pain during walking
- Footwear modifications — supportive, well-fitted shoes (and in some cases, prescription footwear) to accommodate joint changes and reduce pressure
- Soft tissue therapy — to address muscle tightness and compensatory patterns around painful joints
- Joint mobilisation — gentle mobilisation techniques to maintain joint range of motion
- GP and rheumatologist coordination — medication for arthritis is managed by your GP or rheumatologist. We work alongside them to ensure foot-specific care is integrated with your broader treatment plan
- Surgical referral — for cases where joint replacement or other surgical intervention is required
Why Choose Highett Podiatry?
Foot arthritis is one of the most common presentations across our Highett and Mentone clinics.
Our podiatrists have extensive experience managing the foot manifestations of osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, gout, and other inflammatory joint conditions across all ages. We work closely with GPs and rheumatologists to ensure your foot care is properly integrated with your broader medical management.
No referral required. Book an appointment online or speak with our friendly receptionist.