Arthritis of the Foot and Ankle Care

What You Need To Know

Understanding arthritis of the foot and ankle is the first step toward lasting relief.

Managing Foot and Ankle Arthritis

Arthritis is the inflammation and degeneration of joints, which can affect the foot and ankle in several locations. Unlike injuries such as sprains or fractures, arthritis develops gradually and worsens over time, leading to chronic pain, stiffness, and limited movement. Arthritis of the foot and ankle is a painful and progressive condition that can make walking and daily activities difficult.

There are several types of arthritis that affect the foot and ankle. Osteoarthritis, the most common form, is known as wear-and-tear arthritis and develops when cartilage cushioning the joints breaks down over time. Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune condition that attacks the joints, often on both sides of the body, and can lead to severe deformities. Post-traumatic arthritis develops after an injury such as a fracture or severe sprain, where the trauma accelerates joint wear even after healing.

Common symptoms include chronic pain that worsens with activity, stiffness and reduced range of motion, swelling around the joint, difficulty walking or standing for long periods, a grinding or clicking sensation, and visible deformities in severe cases. Arthritis most often affects the ankle joint, the subtalar joint below the ankle, the big toe joint, and the midfoot joints.

At Foot Care Center, diagnosis begins with a physical examination and medical history review. Imaging tests, including X-rays, CT scans, or MRI, may be used to evaluate joint damage and determine the type of arthritis so we can build a treatment plan suited to your condition.

Treatment Options and Living With Arthritis

Most patients begin with conservative care aimed at reducing pain and protecting the joint. This may include custom orthotics or supportive footwear, bracing or ankle supports, physical therapy for strength and flexibility, anti-inflammatory medications, and corticosteroid injections for pain relief. Many patients find that these approaches, combined with lifestyle adjustments, significantly ease symptoms.

When conservative treatments are not effective, surgery may be recommended. Options include arthroscopic surgery, a minimally invasive procedure to clean the joint, joint fusion (arthrodesis) to eliminate painful motion between bones, and joint replacement (arthroplasty), which replaces the damaged joint with an artificial implant. Our podiatrists will discuss which approach best fits your condition, activity level, and long-term goals.

Although arthritis is a chronic condition, proper treatment and lifestyle adjustments can make a significant difference. Maintaining a healthy weight, wearing supportive shoes, and following your podiatrist’s treatment plan can help reduce pain and preserve mobility over time.

At Foot Care Center, we offer personalized treatment plans to manage foot and ankle arthritis. Our team uses medical and surgical techniques to reduce pain, improve mobility, and enhance your quality of life. If you are experiencing joint pain or stiffness, visit us for a comprehensive evaluation and effective treatment options.