Arthritis
Arthritis is a disease characterized by the inflammation of the cartilage and lining of the body’s joints. Inflammation causes redness, warmth, pain and swelling. The primary targets for arthritis are people over the age of 50. Arthritis is a major cause of foot pain because each foot has 33 joints that can become affected by the disease.
Osteoarthritis
The most common type of arthritis is called osteoarthritis. Osteoarthritis caused by excessive strain and the wearing away of cartilage in the joints of the foot. Movement becomes very difficult and painful. The pain and swelling worsens while standing or walking, and stiffness usually occurs after periods of rest.
Gout
Gout is another form of arthritis that also leads to foot complications. Excess uric acid crystals collect in and around the joints of the big toe. The big toe joint is commonly the focal point due to the stress and pressure it experiences during walking and other weight bearing activities. This often leads to severe pain in the big toe. Men are more likely to develop gouty arthritis than women.
Rheumatoid Arthritis
Another type of arthritis is rheumatoid arthritis. It can develop at any age and there is no known cause for this condition. Rheumatoid arthritis is the most crippling form of the disease that can affect people of all ages. It can cause severe deformities of the joints with associated fatigue of the entire body. People who suffer from rheumatoid arthritis often develop severe forefoot problems such as bunions, hammer toes, and others.
Treatment and Prevention
Conservative treatment (non-surgical treatment) of the arthritic foot includes proper shoes and orthotics (custom made shoe inserts). Arthritic footwear should provide the following benefits:
 | Rocker Soles designed to facilitate walking and to reduce stress and pain at the ball-of-the-foot. |
| Removable insoles for fitting flexibility and the option to insert orthotics if necessary. |
| High, wide toe box (high and wide space in the toe area) |
Arthritic footwear should also accommodate swelling of the foot. Orthotics designed to provide comfort, support and extra cushioning are also recommended. Orthotics can be made with a material that molds to your feet to provide customized comfort. The proper footwear and orthotics will reduce pressure to provide a comfortable and healthy environment for the foot.
If you are experiencing any of these signs or symptoms, call today for an appointment.