Arthritis Can Sneak Up on You
At NY Foot Health, we know that joint disease can come on gradually, and many busy patients may put off dealing with nagging symptoms. Perhaps you wake up in the morning with stiffness in your ankle or toes, or you notice some swelling or tenderness in the joints of your feet. In fact, because your feet receive so much of the weight and pressure from carrying the rest of your body, they are often the first site that arthritis shows symptoms. Other signs of arthritis include changes in your skin such as redness/rashes or a feeling of warmth on a joint and, of course, pain. There are several reasons why you should seek treatment from a podiatrist promptly if you notice one or more of these symptoms:
There are many forms of arthritis, and each requires different types of treatment. Arthritis is used as an overarching term that covers over 100 diseases and conditions that affect your joints.
Arthritis can be part of a serious, systemic disease that can affect your entire body. Rheumatoid arthritis, for example, is an autoimmune disease that can have a detrimental impact on your lungs, eyes, heart, and nervous system, as well as your joints.
The destruction of cartilage is not reversible. If the inflammation of the joints is not treated, both cartilage and bone can be damaged.
Fortunately, there are many ways to control arthritis, slow its progression, and even cause it to go into remission. The key is early detection and treatment.
If you are experiencing joint discomfort and don’t currently have a podiatrist, find a qualified foot doctor close to you using our online directory. If you are diagnosed with a form of arthritis, your podiatrist will determine the right treatment plan for you. It may include correcting biomechanical problems in your feet, using a custom orthotic, physical therapy, and/or making changes in your diet and lifestyle.
To learn more about arthritis and other conditions that impact the health of your feet, contact us.