Foot Arthritis

There are more than 100 different types of arthritis, many of which can strike without advance notice in an ankle and foot. While most forms of arthritis develop over a long period of time, the symptoms may appear suddenly. The two main types of arthritis that affect the foot include:

• Osteoarthritis. The most common form of arthritis, osteoarthritis is usually associated with aging. The disease may develop when the cartilage in a joint wears away through overuse. Once the cartilage is gone, the bones in the joint rub against each other, causing inflammation and pain.
• Rheumatoid arthritis. A chronic disease that continues to worsen, rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disease that can develop at any age. It occurs when your own immune system starts assaulting your joints, which causes swelling and pain. Symptoms often start in your hands and feet.

Arthritis also can develop after a foot injury. When this happens, it’s called post-traumatic arthritis. Each of the different types of arthritis can cause symptoms that range from mild to severe. It takes a medical expert to determine which kind of arthritis you’re suffering from.

A foot joint affected by arthritis becomes painful and inflamed. Symptoms usually develop gradually, but it’s possible for them to appear to start suddenly. Symptoms in the foot from arthritis may include:

• Swelling, redness and warmth
• Increased pain with motion
• Tenderness if pressure is applied
• Joint stiffness and a decreased range of motion
• Difficulty walking, standing or bearing weight
• Crunching or cracking noise when moving the foot

The pain and swelling may feel worse in the morning or after sitting and resting for a period of time. Since there are 30 joints in each foot, arthritis may affect one joint or multiple joints. Your symptoms may make you believe you have something other than arthritis, such as a sprain, but that’s one more reason to seek a specialist from a medical practice like Redefine Healthcare.

If you’re experiencing foot pain or swelling that’s affecting your ability to complete normal everyday tasks, see a doctor or a specialist in pain management. Early intervention can help slow the progression of the condition, buying you time to take corrective action. If you wait too long to seek medical attention, surgery may be your only option to maintain your foot’s functionality.

In New Jersey, your best option is to visit Redefine Healthcare. Top-rated pain management doctors offer the most advanced pain management treatments available, whether you have foot pain, knee pain, hip pain or back pain. The medical team prioritizes non-surgical and interventional procedures. They have convenient locations throughout northern New Jersey. Contact Redefine Healthcare today.