Arthritic Feet

Many people associate arthritis with aging. Did you know that age isn’t the only thing that can cause arthritis? People of all ages can suffer from arthritis for a multitude of reasons. Most people have heard about arthritis and the pain that accompanies it. There is aching, throbbing, and extremely stiff and uncomfortable joints. Arthritis is not limited to one area and commonly effects the feet.

What is Arthritis?

Arthritis is the inflammation and swelling of the joint lining and cartilage. Think of it like a permanent bruise located in your joints. It can affect any joint in the body, but typically the feet and ankles are more susceptible to arthritis. This is because we put so much strain and pressure on our feet and ankles every day. The condition can be debilitating, and many people have a hard time controlling its symptoms.

Arthritis can be found in any of the 33 joints that we have in our feet and ankles. Pinning down exactly which joint or joints can be tricky. It is important to see a podiatrist to diagnosis the exact area the arthritis is affecting. Browse our website to find a skilled podiatrist near you that is highly trained and qualified to help you with all your foot care needs. Tests, bone density scans, and x-rays may be used in order to aid in the diagnosis.

Age isn’t just a number when it comes to arthritis, and it is not the only deciding factor either. People who are aged 50 and older are much more likely to get arthritis. This is because they have lived a longer course of life and have continuously put pressure and stress on their joints. Over time the wear and tear stress the joints and cartilage and causes arthritis.

Genetics can also play a role in the likelihood of an arthritis diagnosis. If your family has a history of arthritis, it is likely that you and your kin will also suffer from the disorder.

Another common cause of arthritis is trauma to the feet and ankles. Athletic injuries, car accidents, and other traumas can cause arthritis in just about anyone at any age. Sometimes the bones and joints do not heal all the way, or properly and it causes them to swell and get irritated.

Arthritis cannot be cured but it can be managed. Browse our New York Foot Health website to learn more about foot & ankle health, find a podiatrist, our community health initiatives and more. You can also sign up for our e-newsletter to stay informed.  Contact us for more information and you will be one step closer to a more comfortable journey with arthritis.