Arthritis is often a condition that is synonymous with age, as joints are subject to wear-and-tear. This is a progressive condition that will come on gradually and continue to get worse unless you seek treatment for it. It is also possible that a traumatic injury can put you at risk for arthritis down the road. The major types of arthritis that affect the foot and ankle are osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis.
The professionals at Foot and Ankle Specialists of Illinois have been diagnosing and treating foot and ankle conditions for years. They have refined a comprehensive diagnostic test to determine the source of your foot pain and can provide a treatment plan that will get you results in an effective and efficient manner.
Symptoms of Foot Arthritis
The most common symptom associated with foot arthritis is pain and inflammation in a localized area but may vary depending on which joint is affected. The pain will be subtle at first but will gradually worsen over time. Other symptoms you may experience are as follows:
- Joint swelling, warmth, and redness
- Tender when pressure is applied
- Pain with movement
- Pain flares up with activity
- Difficulty in walking
Osteoarthritis of the Foot
Osteoarthritis, also known as degenerative arthritis, is a common condition for middle-aged men and women. This foot condition arises due to the cartilage in the joint gradually wearing away. As the cartilage thins and the protective space between the bones decreases, it can result in bone rubbing on bone and cause bone spurs. Osteoarthritis develops slowly, causing pain and stiffness that worsen over time. Family history and obesity are large contributors to this condition, in addition to age,
Rheumatoid Arthritis of the Foot
Rheumatoid arthritis is a chronic disease that can affect multiple joints throughout the body. This condition often affects patients in a symmetrical way, meaning that it usually affects the same joint on both sides of the body.
Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disease, meaning that the immune system malfunctions and mistakenly attack your own bodily tissues. Cells attack the synovium covering the joint, causing it to swell, gradually damaging the bone and cartilage, as well as ligaments and tendons. As this condition progresses you may suffer serious joint deformity and disability. The exact cause of rheumatoid arthritis is not known, though there is usually an event that acts as a catalyst, such as an infection or environmental factor.
Worried You May Have Foot Arthritis? Visit Our Algonquin, IL, Location For Real Results!
The professionals at Foot And Ankle Specialists Of Illinois are experts in everything foot-related, call, or book a consultation online with one of our specialists to learn more about what the best course of action is for you!
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