Understanding Arthritis

Arthritis is an umbrella term for more than 100 different diseases and conditions that affect joint health. May is Arthritis Awareness Month, and with 33 joints each, your feet are particularly susceptible to the symptoms of these disorders. At NY Foot Health, we’d like to share some important information about three of the most prevalent types of arthritis.

Osteoarthritis

It is the most common type of arthritis and the form most familiar to patients. Also known as “wear and tear” arthritis, it is primarily a degenerative condition that gradually develops as cartilage breaks down as you age due to continued use. Joint pain, swelling, and discomfort increase over time, and when it affects the joints in your feet, it may make it difficult to walk and maintain your balance. The difficulties magnify in the feet for overweight patients due to the extra stress put on the joints, which also causes the cartilage to deteriorate more quickly.

Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA)

This kind of arthritis goes beyond joint pain. It’s a systemic chronic inflammatory complex of diseases that affects smaller joints and other body parts, such as the eyes, heart, lungs, and nervous system. Extreme fatigue, stiffness, and weight loss may also be part of this condition. The disease may be active for months or even years and then go into remission, sometimes permanently. Rather than persistently progressing, RA may have flare-ups of inflammation and other symptoms alternating with periods of remission.

Psoriatic Arthritis

Although psoriasis is usually viewed as a skin disorder in some patients, it can also cause joint pain. Symptoms may be mild and involve only a few joints, particularly those at the ends of the toes and fingers. It’s not unusual for the arthritis symptoms to worsen as the skin condition worsens.

Consult Your Podiatrist

Typical symptoms common to most arthritic conditions include swelling, pain, tenderness, and heat in the joints. There may also be stiffness and limited range of motion. If you experience any of these in your feet or ankles, it’s essential to promptly get them evaluated by your podiatrist. Left untreated, arthritis can cause deformities and alter the structure and function of your feet. There are many avenues of treatment and lifestyle changes that can ease symptoms and slow the progression of arthritis. Don’t wait. Contact your podiatrist today if you have concerns.

If you need to find a podiatrist near you, use our online directory. To learn more ways to protect the health of your feet, contact us and consider subscribing to our free e-newsletter.