Lefort Podiatry offer general podiatry care for arthritic foot and ankle joints to the local Forest Hill, Doveton, Blackburn, Burwood East & Vermont communities. Make an appointment by calling us on 03 9877 2077 (Forest Hill Clinic) or 03 9794 0114 (Doveton Clinic) or contact us.
There are 26 main bones and 2 special small bones underneath the great toe called sesamoid bones. As a result, there are more than 30 joints within the foot. Given this fact and the amount of force the feet undergo during everyday life it is not surprising that arthritis within the foot is not uncommon.
There are basically three more common types of arthritis that may affect your foot and ankle:
Osteoarthritis
Osteoarthritis, also known “wear and tear” or degenerative arthritis, is the more common type generally occurring after middle age. As the arthritis develops, the smooth, gliding surface covering the ends of bones (cartilage) becomes worn and frayed resulting in inflammation, swelling, and pain in and around the joint. Generally osteoarthritis progresses slowly and the pain and stiffness associated with it worsens over time. Foot posture or shape, activity levels and type, muscle function and body weight are some factors that may contribute to the development of osteoarthritis.
Rheumatoid Arthritis
Unlike osteoarthritis which generally tends to affect joints under the greatest stress with localised symptoms, rheumatoid arthritis affects a much larger number of joints in the foot and ankle that are not necessarily under great stress. This is because rheumatoid arthritis is classified as a systemic autoimmune disease where the patient’s own immune system attacks and destroys cartilage.
Post-Traumatic Arthritis
Post-traumatic arthritis can develop after an injury to the foot or ankle. This type of arthritis is similar to osteoarthritis and may develop years after a fracture, severe sprain, or ligament injury.
- Signs and Symptoms of Arthritic Joints
- pain or tenderness
- stiffness or reduced motion
- swelling
- difficulty walking due to any of the above
Treatment of Arthritic Joints by Podiatrists
Treatment by your podiatrist depends on the type of arthritis but may include both single and/or a combination of modalities.
Contact us today to make an appointment.