What is Arthritis?
Arthritis is a widespread condition characterized by inflammation and swelling in the joints, which can lead to intense pain and restricted mobility. It affects millions of individuals globally. The inflammation in arthritis can damage the lining and cartilage within the joints, exacerbating discomfort and hindering movement.
When it comes to the feet and ankles, they are responsible for supporting majority of the body's weight and facilitating movement. The feet and ankles have a total of 33 joints and are complex structures that are particularly prone to developing arthritis. The constant stress and strain they endure increase the chances of developing arthritic symptoms in these areas.
What Causes Arthritis?
Arthritis can be caused by a number of factors that include:
- Genes which predispose a person to arthritis
- Injuries that cause joint damage
- Old age which causes joints to get worn down
- Infections in joints that are viral, bacterial, or fungal
- Excess Weight that puts extra wear and tear on joints
- Jobs requiring repetitive movements or lifting heavy objects
Types of Arthritis and Their Symptoms
Osteoarthritis. The most widespread form of arthritis, osteoarthritis, occurs when the cartilage at the ends of bones wears down, leading to friction between them. Signs of this condition may involve joint pain, tenderness, and swelling, along with a grinding feeling, bone growths, changes in joint shape, and reduced ability to move the joint.
Rheumatoid arthritis. This happens when the body's immune system mistakenly attacks the linings of the joints. Symptoms can include joint pain, stiffness, swelling, tenderness or warmth in the joints and nearby tissues, fever, loss of appetite, and feeling tired.
Gout. When there's too much uric acid in the blood, it can lead to the formation of needle-like crystals in the joints. This can cause sudden attacks of intense pain, swelling, and redness in the joints, along with difficulty moving them.
Tips For Arthritic Foot Care
Practicing the following arthritic foot and ankle care at home can sometimes help lessen the severity of symptoms like pain and stiffness:
Footwear. Choose shoes that are flexible, offer good support, have proper arch support, low heels, cushioned soles, and enough space in the toe area.
Custom Orthotics. Custom orthotic devices are specially made to give you the support your feet need, reducing friction and pressure on sensitive areas.
Heat and Ice. Ice, creams, and heating pads can sometimes improve blood flow in the hurting spot, which might ease symptoms and lessen swelling.
Medication. Medicines like nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can give some relief, but they're not good for using for a long time, and they don't permanently fix the problem of managing the disease.
Because arthritis is a complicated condition, a foot doctor can offer expert methods to lessen your pain and assist you in managing this painful and sometimes disabling disease.
