Arthritis & My Feet
The term ‘arthritis’ describes over 100 different conditions that have an impact on the joints and soft tissue structures which surround the joints in the body. The foot and ankle consist of 100 ligaments, 30 muscles and 26 bones that together form 30 joints that provide our body with a supportive base and active shock absorption during activity. If our feet are affected by arthritis it can lead to pain and restricted mobility not only in the feet but can also have a rippling effect along our entire kinetic chain causing pain and tenderness at our ankles, knees, hips and back.
- Arthritis affects 1 in 5 Australians and is the most common long-term health condition in Australia
- Arthritis is the second leading cause of disability and the leading cause of pain in Australia
- 94% of people with Arthritis report pain in their feet at some stage
- People with Arthritis are 2.5 times more likely to have a fall than those without Arthritis
How would I know if I have arthritis in my feet?
Common symptoms associated with the presence of arthritis include:
Pain or tenderness
Stiffness in one or more joints
Reduced movement (big toes & ankle)
Swelling
Difficulty walking
Not all foot pain is due to arthritis therefore, it is important that the cause of foot pain is accurately diagnosed by a podiatrist.
How can a podiatrist help if I have arthritis in my feet?
- Provide education and advice on the recommended footwear that will best support your foot type
- Prescribe orthotic intervention to provide stability and shock absorption to affected joints to ease walking
- Mobilise restricted joints and surrounding soft tissues to reduce pain
- Prescribe exercises that maintain the joint range of motion you have
- Provide ongoing support to prevent further damage caused by arthritis, keeping you active and pain free for longer