Arthritis

What is Arthritis?

Arthritis is a disabling and occasionally crippling disease; it afflicts almost 40 million Americans. In some forms, it appears to have hereditary tendencies. While the prevalence of arthritis increases with age, all people from infancy to middle age are potential victims. People over 50 are the primary targets.

Arthritis is inflammation and swelling of the cartilage and lining of the joints. Arthritis has multiple causes and can be associated with many different illnesses. The feet may be more susceptible to arthritis than other parts of the body, because each foot has 33 joints that can be afflicted, and there is no way to avoid the pain of the tremendous weight-bearing load on the feet. Arthritis in the feet can result in loss of mobility and independence, but that may be avoided with early diagnosis and proper medical care.

Some Causes

Arthritis may be caused by various factors.

  • Research shows that hereditary may play a role in arthritis.
  • Injuries to any joints in the body can lead to development of arthritis in those joints.
  • Various bacterial and viral organisms.
  • Certain bowl disorders such as Colitis and Ileitis can result in arthritic conditions in the joints of the foot and ankle.
  • The use of certain drugs, both prescription and illegal, can cause arthritis.

Symptoms

Because arthritis can affect the structure and function of the feet it is important to see us if any of the following symptoms occur in the feet:

  • Swelling in one or more joints
  • Recurring pain or tenderness in any joint
  • Redness or heat in a joint
  • Limitation in motion of joint
  • Early morning stiffness
  • Skin changes, including rashes and growths

Some Forms of Arthritis

  • Osteoarthritis: This is the most common type of arthritis. It is often referred to as the "wear and tear" arthritis or "degenerative joint disease". It generally occurs gradually through ageing, which causes break down of cartilage within the joints. It can also occur suddenly in cases of trauma to a specific joint. The pain gets progressively worse and only relived with rest. As it progresses, it can become disabling and/or crippling.
  • Rheumatoid arthritis: This is the most serious and disabling of all forms of arthritis. It is a chronic inflammatory disease which often affects multiple small joints in the hands and feet. It is manifested by morning stiffness, fatigue and weight loss. It has periods of remission, during which the symptoms disappear, and periods when the inflammation, stiffness, and pain return. It also affects other systems of the body including the eyes, lungs, heart, and the nerves. It is more common in women then men.
  • Gout: Is a form of arthritis that is caused by the accumulation of uric acid in the blood stream which tends to crystallize in the joints. Uric acid is a normal byproduct of various food products we consume. It often affects a single joint. The big toe and the ankle are two of the most common joints that are affected. Gout can be extremely painful. It is characterized by sudden severe pain in a single joint with associated swelling, heat, and redness. It is more common in men then women. Certain foods associated with Gout include red meat, shellfish, nuts, and beans.

Treatment

The goal in treatment of arthritis is to control the inflammation and preserve joint function and integrity. Because the foot and ankle are the most frequent targets of arthritis, it is important to see us when sign and symptoms of arthritis arise.

There are various treatment options for patients with arthritis. Often, exercise, physical therapy, and pain medications may be enough to relive the symptoms. Other options include shoe inserts (orthotics) or a specially prescribed shoes if there is any deformity present. As last resort, there is always the option of surgical intervention including artificial joint implants.

If you suffer from arthritis, don't let it affect your life. Call us today and schedule an appointment for evaluation.