Arthritis

If you have joint pain, stiffness, and limited range of motion because of arthritis, help is within reach at Montgomery Podiatry in Huntingdon Valley, Pennsylvania. The skilled podiatry team offers treatment for foot and ankle arthritis to ease your discomfort and prevent complications. Call the office to learn more, or use the online scheduler today. 

What is arthritis?

Throughout their lifetime, many people walk about 75,000 miles, putting quite a bit of stress on their feet and joints.

Arthritis is an inflammatory condition in which your joints become inflamed, tender, and stiff. Genetic factors may also contribute to developing arthritis. The good news is that treatment with the help of the Montgomery Podiatry team can offer you relief.

What are the symptoms of arthritis?

The hallmark symptoms of arthritis include:

• Swelling
• Stiffness
• Decreased range of motion
• Limited mobility
• Redness
• Warmth
• Weakness
• Joint pain
• Visible joint deformities

Your symptoms may be mild and not bother you much, or they can be severe and crippling. 

Gout is a form of arthritis that often affects the big toe joint, sometimes causing debilitating discomfort when left untreated. 

Early treatment is the best way to minimize foot and ankle arthritis pain and reduce the chance of complications.

What are the risk factors for arthritis?

While anyone can develop arthritis, the most common risk factors are:

• Older age
• Family history of arthritis
• Previous joint injuries
• Carrying excess body weight

While you may not be able to avoid foot and ankle arthritis, ways to reduce its risk or complications include eating nutritious foods, maintaining an ideal body weight, getting regular exercise, and seeking treatment at the first sign of a problem. 

How does my provider diagnose arthritis?

To diagnose arthritis, your Montgomery Podiatry provider examines your feet, ankles, and toes and reviews your medical history. They ask about your symptoms, medications, lifestyle habits, and more. 

You might undergo blood tests, joint fluid tests, X-rays, or other imaging procedures to determine which treatment is the best for you.

How is foot and ankle arthritis treated?

To relieve unpleasant symptoms of foot and ankle arthritis, your Montgomery Podiatry provider may recommend wearing more comfortable shoes with good arch supports, trying custom-fitted orthotics, taking medications, receiving regenerative medicine injections, getting regular exercise, and eating nutritious foods. 

You might need foot surgery in severe cases to restore the structure and function of your feet, ankles, or toe joints. Your podiatrist tailors each treatment to your needs and follows up with you periodically to ensure your feet and ankles remain healthy and without discomfort. 

To get relief from foot and ankle arthritis pain and stiffness, call the Montgomery Podiatry office or use the online booking feature today.