Foot Arthritis

What is Foot Arthritis?

Arthritis is a term used for a group of conditions that affect the joints.

When arthritis affects the feet or ankles, it can cause pain, stiffness, swelling and reduced movement. Because the feet contain many small joints and carry the body’s weight during walking, arthritis can have a significant effect on everyday activity.

Common Types of Arthritis Affecting the Feet

Different forms of arthritis can affect the feet, including:

• osteoarthritis
• rheumatoid arthritis
• gout
• arthritis that develops following a previous joint injury

Osteoarthritis is a long-term condition involving changes throughout the joint and commonly affects the feet. Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune condition that often affects smaller joints, including those in the feet.

Common Symptoms

Symptoms can vary depending on the type of arthritis and the joints involved.

They may include:

• joint pain
• stiffness
• swelling
• tenderness
• reduced movement
• difficulty walking
• changes in the shape or position of the toes or joints
• pain that becomes worse with activity

Arthritis can also make normal activities and footwear less comfortable.

What Can Contribute to Foot Arthritis?

The causes and risk factors depend on the type of arthritis.

Factors associated with some forms of arthritis may include:

• ageing
• previous joint injury
• family history
• repetitive loading of a joint
• autoimmune disease
• other underlying medical conditions

A proper diagnosis is important because different types of arthritis require different approaches to treatment.

How Can a Podiatrist Help?

A podiatrist can assess how arthritis is affecting the feet, footwear and walking.

Depending on your symptoms, management may include:

• footwear advice
• cushioning or pressure relief
• orthotics where appropriate
• exercises to maintain movement and function
• advice about activity modification
• treatment of associated corns or calluses
• strategies to improve comfort while walking
• referral to your GP, rheumatologist or other health professional when appropriate

Treatment should be tailored to the type of arthritis, the joints involved and the effect symptoms are having on daily life. Podiatrists may form part of the broader healthcare team involved in arthritis management.

When Should Foot Pain Be Assessed?

Persistent joint pain, swelling, stiffness or reduced mobility should be assessed, particularly if symptoms are affecting walking or normal daily activities.

A medical assessment may be required to determine which type of arthritis is present and whether further investigation or treatment is needed.