Arthritic Foot & Ankle Care

Arthritic foot and ankle care treatment, foot arthritis treatment in the Cook County, IL: Chicago (Cicero, Evanston, Skokie, Berwyn, Oak Park, Park Ridge, Niles, Morton Grove, Elmwood Park, Melrose Park, Maywood, Norridge, Forest Park) areas

Arthritic Foot & Ankle Treatment in Chicago, IL

Arthritis is a condition in which the joints become inflamed, swollen, stiff, and painful. There are many different types of arthritis that can affect the joints of the feet and ankles. The two most common forms are osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis.

Osteoarthritis is the type of joint disease most frequently associated with aging. As we get older, wear and tear can break down the cartilage in our joints. Cartilage is important, as it lines our joints and gives them a smooth and cushioned service to move along. Without it, the joints rub against each other painfully, producing the classic symptoms of osteoarthritis such as pain, stiffness, tenderness, and a reduced range of motion. Osteoarthritis tends to get worse over time, although the severity of your symptoms may vary day to day.

Rheumatoid arthritis, on the other hand, is an autoimmune disease in which the body’s immune system malfunctions and attacks healthy joints. This can lead to symptoms much like those of osteoarthritis - joint pain, inflammation, swelling, tenderness, and stiffness - as well as systemic autoimmune systems. Rheumatoid arthritis can flare up and then remit, leading to temporary increases or decreases in symptoms.

Since both osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis can affect the joints of the feet and ankles, you should see a podiatrist if you are experiencing the aforementioned symptoms. A podiatrist can help you maintain the health of your feet, diagnose which joint condition you may be experiencing, reduce the severity of your symptoms, and improve your overall quality of life.

Arthritic Foot Care (FAQs)

What is arthritis?
Arthritis is a medical condition that causes joint inflammation, stiffness, swelling, and pain. There are many different types of arthritis. Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disease in which the immune system attacks otherwise healthy cells in the joints. Osteoarthritis, which is associated with aging, occurs due to wear and tear on the joints and their lining over time. Gout is another form of arthritis and is caused by a buildup of uric acid in the blood.
Can you get arthritis in your feet and ankles?
While arthritis can affect any joints in your body, it often affects the small joints of the feet, toes, and ankles. Symptoms of arthritis in the feet include joint pain, tenderness, swelling, stiffness, and warmth. It may be difficult to move the affected joints, which can make walking or bearing weight more difficult.
Does arthritis get worse over time?
Arthritis is a chronic condition. There are several different types of arthritis, and every individual case is unique. For some people, arthritis symptoms tend to get worse over time as the affected joints degenerate. For others, symptoms may come and go. You may be able to slow the progression of arthritis through lifestyle changes and following specific treatment plans.
Can anything be done to treat foot and ankle arthritis?
There are a variety of treatments available for foot and ankle arthritis. The typical goals of arthritis treatment are to slow the progression of the arthritis, manage symptoms, and maintain overall quality of life. Maintaining a healthy weight, exercising regularly, and wearing orthotics can be helpful. Taking anti-inflammatory medications can help reduce joint pain. In severe, advanced cases of arthritis, surgery may help restore function to damaged joints.
Is exercise good for arthritis?
Exercise is great for arthritis. People with foot and ankle arthritis should focus on increasing the strength and flexibility of their lower limbs. This will help maintain mobility and range of motion. Walking, aquatic exercises, gentle stretches, and yoga are all activities that those with arthritis may benefit from.

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Advanced Podiatric Procedures & Services in the Cook County, IL: Chicago (Cicero, Evanston, Skokie, Berwyn, Oak Park, Park Ridge, Niles, Morton Grove, Elmwood Park, Melrose Park, Maywood, Norridge, Forest Park) areas