Arthritic Foot Conditions Specialist

What are some common arthritic foot conditions?

Arthritis is an umbrella term that refers to several conditions that can affect the health, structure, and function of your joints. Common types of arthritic foot conditions include:

Gout

Gout is a type of arthritis that commonly affects the joint at the base of your big toe. It’s a complex condition that causes bouts of pain, swelling, and tenderness that may come and go. Gout is caused by high levels of uric acid that result in painful urate crystals. These urate crystals accumulate in your toe joint causing severe attacks of gout symptoms. 

There are a number of factors that can result in high levels of uric acid, including kidney disease, diabetes, and diets high in meat or seafood. If left untreated, your gout symptoms may continue to worsen, leading to further joint damage. 

Osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis is a type of arthritis that occurs when the cartilage in your joints wears down, resulting in pain, swelling, and stiffness. Cartilage serves as a protective cushion for your bones, allowing frictionless movement of your joints. Without enough cartilage, your bones eventually rub against each other, causing further complications like bone spurs or abnormal bone growth. 

A number of factors affect the wear and tear on your joints, including age, repetitive stress, and obesity. Osteoarthritis is a degenerative disease that continues to worsen over time. Although there is no cure for osteoarthritis, Richmond Podiatry Associates offers a number of safe and effective treatments to successfully manage your symptoms. 

Rheumatoid arthritis

Rheumatoid arthritis is a type of arthritis that causes ongoing damage to the lining of your joints. Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disorder that causes your immune system to mistakenly attack your joints. It can cause painful swelling and tenderness and can eventually lead to bone loss and joint deformities. 

There is no clear cause of rheumatoid arthritis, although factors like genetics, obesity, and exposure to certain substances (like silica or asbestos) seem to play a role. 

How are arthritic foot conditions diagnosed?

To perform your diagnosis, your doctor begins with a physical exam, paying close attention to the movement of your joints. Depending on your condition, your doctor may perform additional tests like:

• Blood test
• Urine test
• Joint fluid test
• X-rays
• MRI
• Ultrasound

Once you’ve been diagnosed, your doctor works with you to determine the best treatment for your arthritic foot condition. 

What treatments are available?

Richmond Podiatry Associates offers a number of treatments for different types of arthritis including:

• Medications
• Physical therapy
• Cortisone or lubrication injections

In some cases, your condition may require surgery to repair or replace damaged joints. The specialists at Richmond Podiatry Associates have extensive experience performing a wide range of foot and ankle surgeries. To find out which treatment is right for you, call the office or book an appointment online today.