Arthritis of the Foot & Ankle

Arthritis is a condition that causes inflammation and stiffness in the joints. When it affects the foot and ankle, it can lead to chronic pain, swelling, and difficulty walking. Because the feet bear your body weight with every step, arthritis in these joints can significantly impact your mobility and quality of life. Fortunately, many treatment options are available to help you stay active and comfortable.

What Is Arthritis?

Arthritis is not a single disease but a term used to describe joint inflammation. In the foot and ankle, arthritis can damage cartilage, reduce joint movement, and cause the bones to rub together. This leads to pain, stiffness, and loss of flexibility.

The most common types of arthritis affecting the foot and ankle include:

• Osteoarthritis

  Often called “wear and tear” arthritis, this develops gradually over time as cartilage breaks down. It is more common in older adults.

• Rheumatoid arthritis

  An autoimmune condition where the body’s immune system attacks healthy joints, causing widespread inflammation and joint damage.

• Post-traumatic arthritis

  This can develop after an injury such as a fracture or severe sprain, even years later. It results from long-term wear or damage following trauma.

Symptoms

Arthritis of the foot and ankle may cause:

• Pain or tenderness, especially after activity

• Swelling around one or more joints

• Stiffness or limited range of motion

• Difficulty walking or standing for long periods

• A feeling of instability in the joint

• Changes in the shape of the foot or toes

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

Diagnosis

Diagnosis begins with a physical exam and discussion of your symptoms and medical history. Your provider may perform:

• X-rays to check joint space, bone alignment, and signs of arthritis

• MRI or CT scans for more detailed views of cartilage and soft tissue

• Blood tests if autoimmune conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis are suspected

• Gait analysis to assess how arthritis is affecting your movement

Treatment Options

While arthritis cannot be cured, it can often be managed effectively with a combination of therapies. Your treatment plan may include:

• Activity modification: Avoiding high-impact activities that worsen symptoms

• Physical therapy: Strengthening the muscles around the joint and improving range of motion

• Custom orthotics or bracing: Supporting the foot, relieving pressure, and improving alignment

• Supportive footwear: Wearing shoes with proper cushioning and arch support

• Anti-inflammatory medications: Reducing pain and swelling

• Injections: Corticosteroid injections may provide temporary relief in inflamed joints

• Weight management: Reducing strain on the joints by maintaining a healthy weight

If conservative treatments do not provide relief, surgical options may be considered. Surgery may involve cleaning out the joint, fusing bones together, or joint replacement, depending on the severity of the condition.

When to See a Specialist

You should schedule an evaluation if you experience:

• Persistent foot or ankle pain that limits daily activities

• Swelling or stiffness that does not improve with rest

• Difficulty walking, standing, or wearing shoes

• Joint deformities or changes in foot shape

Early diagnosis and treatment can help slow the progression of arthritis and protect your mobility for the long term.