Arthritis in the foot and ankle treated at Foot Centers of Maryland

Arthritic Foot Condition Treatment in Maryland

Rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis are two common forms of arthritis that affect millions of Americans, especially those over age 45. With 33 joints in each foot, the feet and ankles are frequently affected. The podiatrists at Foot Centers of Maryland help patients in Baltimore, Glen Burnie, Timonium, and Reisterstown, MD manage arthritis pain, protect their joints, and stay mobile.

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Types of Arthritis That Affect the Feet

  • Osteoarthritis: “Wear and tear” arthritis that is isolated to the joints, where cartilage breaks down over time. It commonly affects the big toe joint, midfoot, and ankle.
  • Rheumatoid Arthritis: An autoimmune disease that affects the entire body and often causes swelling and deformity in the small joints of the feet.
  • Gout: A sudden, intensely painful form of arthritis caused by uric acid crystals, frequently in the big toe.
  • Post-Traumatic Arthritis: Arthritis that develops after a previous fracture or sprain.

Symptoms of Foot and Ankle Arthritis

  • Joint pain and tenderness
  • Stiffness, especially in the morning
  • Swelling and warmth around the joint
  • Reduced range of motion
  • Bone spurs or changes in foot shape, such as bunions and hammertoes
  • Difficulty walking or wearing shoes

Diagnosing Arthritis

Your podiatrist will examine your joints, review your symptoms, and take X-rays to evaluate joint damage. On-site X-rays are available at our Overlea, Glen Burnie, and Mercy offices. We may coordinate with your primary care doctor or rheumatologist for conditions like rheumatoid arthritis and gout.

Treatment for Arthritic Foot Conditions

  • Medication: Anti-inflammatory medications to reduce pain and swelling.
  • Injections: Corticosteroid injections for painful flare-ups.
  • Custom Orthotics: Supporting and cushioning arthritic joints and limiting painful motion.
  • Supportive Footwear and Bracing: Rocker-sole shoes and ankle braces to reduce joint stress.
  • Physical Therapy: Exercises to maintain flexibility and strength.
  • Surgery: Joint reconstruction, fusion, or other procedures when arthritis causes chronic problems that cannot be controlled with medication, orthotics, or physical therapy. Learn more about foot and ankle surgery.

Arthritic Foot Condition FAQs

What types of arthritis affect the feet?

Osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, gout, and post-traumatic arthritis are the most common types that affect the feet and ankles.

What is the difference between osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis?

Osteoarthritis is wear and tear isolated to the joints, while rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disease that affects the entire body.

Can orthotics help arthritis in the feet?

Yes. Custom orthotics can cushion and support arthritic joints, reduce painful motion, and improve walking comfort.

Does arthritis cause foot deformities?

Yes. Arthritis, particularly rheumatoid arthritis, can contribute to bunions, hammertoes, and other changes in foot shape.

When is surgery needed for foot arthritis?

Surgery may be recommended when pain and loss of function cannot be controlled with medication, orthotics, injections, or physical therapy.

What shoes are best for arthritic feet?

Shoes with a wide toe box, good cushioning, firm support, and a rocker sole can reduce stress on arthritic joints.

Can a podiatrist treat gout?

Yes. Podiatrists treat gout flare-ups in the foot and help manage pain, often in coordination with your primary care doctor.

Find Relief from Arthritis Foot Pain

Stay active with expert arthritis care for your feet and ankles. Call (410) 844-4700 - Overlea Office, Mercy Office, Reisterstown Office, Glen Burnie Office, or Lutherville Office or request an appointment at our Overlea, Mercy, Glen Burnie, Lutherville, or Reisterstown office.

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