Don’t Believe Everything You Hear: Myths about Foot and Ankle Arthritis

Because arthritis is joint damage, your feet – each with 30 joints – are likely spots to experience the pain and stiffness of this disease.

May is Arthritis Awareness Month and the perfect time to clear up some myths about foot and ankle arthritis.

Myth: Arthritis causes all joint pain. Bursitis, tendonitis and soft-tissue injuries can also cause joint pain. Visit your podiatrist for an accurate foot or ankle pain diagnosis.

Myth: Arthritis is only for the elderly. The risk of osteoarthritis, where wear and tear on the joints bring on arthritis, increases with age. But people of any age, even children, may suffer from rheumatoid arthritis where the body’s immune system attacks the joints and cartilage.

Myth: Sharp pain is the only arthritis symptom. Arthritis can cause sharp pain or dull throbbing pain, as well as joint swelling, joint tenderness and difficulty walking.

Myth: Surgery is the only treatment option for an arthritic joint. Non-surgical treatment options are actually our first choice. These include lifestyle modifications such as losing weight and exercising, physical therapy, using an assistive device like a cane or brace, wearing custom-fitted orthotics, anti-inflammatory medication and cortisone shots. We will discuss surgery options with you if your pain is severe and even disabling.

Myth: Arthritis is inevitable. You can lower your risk of osteoarthritis by maintaining a healthy weight, staying active and exercising regularly, quitting smoking, avoiding foot and ankle overuse and wearing the right protective gear during sports activities.

Please Call Us If You Experience Joint Pain

The foot specialists at PodiatryCare, PC and the Heel Pain Center have extensive experience in treating all aspects of foot problems. Our team of doctors which consists of Dr. Robert Marra, Dr. Thomas Johnson, Dr. Kristen Winters, Dr. Laura Vander Poel, and Dr. Ryan Donegan is dedicated to serving you with all of the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies. Many treatments and surgeries can be handled right in our offices. Please call us at (860) 741-3041 to make an appointment in one of our offices in Hartford County, conveniently located in Enfield, Windsor and South Windsor, CT.