Stepping Up for Arthritis Awareness Month: Foot and Ankle Concerns
At PodiatryCare, P.C. and the Heel Pain Center, we always take some time to commemorate May’s National Arthritis Awareness Month. After all, it’s the perfect time to shed some much-needed light on a condition that affects millions of Americans, correcting misconceptions and filling in some knowledge gaps along the way.
Arthritis can strike anywhere in the body, with several different varieties afflicting the feet and ankles. The following blog is our attempt to clear up the facts and offer you a few good methods for sidestepping the worst complications, too.
Types and Troubles
There are several varieties of arthritis that can affect the lower extremities.
Osteoarthritis, the "wear and tear" arthritis, is most common. It often develops with age.
Rheumatoid arthritis, an autoimmune disease, also attacks joints in the feet and ankles.
Post-traumatic arthritis can develop after an injury to the foot or ankle.
Symptoms to Watch Out For
Foot and ankle arthritis can manifest in several ways. Be on the lookout for:
Pain, stiffness, and tenderness in the joints of your feet and ankles, particularly in the morning or after periods of inactivity.
Difficulty walking, climbing stairs, or standing for extended periods.
Swelling and redness around the affected joints.
Taking Control of Foot and Ankle Arthritis
While there's no cure for arthritis, there are effective ways to manage symptoms.
Excess weight puts additional stress on your joints, so losing even a few pounds can significantly reduce pain and improve mobility.
Invest in shoes with good arch support and cushioning that distribute weight evenly.
Consider orthotics for additional support and pain relief.
Low-impact exercises like swimming, walking on soft surfaces, and gentle stretching can help maintain joint flexibility and strength.
When in doubt, just remember that regular visits to your podiatrist are always a good idea! We can recommend various treatment options like medication, guided injections, or physical therapy to manage your pain and keep you mobile.
Dr. Charlotte George, Dr. Matthew Tschudy, Dr. Rebecca Wiesner, Dr. Kristen Winters, Dr. Laura Vander Poel, and the rest of our team are dedicated to helping our Hartford County patients. To schedule an appointment at our Enfield location, call (860) 741-3041for an appointment at our South Windsor location, call (860) 644-6525.