Foot & Ankle Arthritis Treatment in Waxahachie, TX
Arthritis Pain Relief With Our Waxahachie Podiatrists
Arthritis can cause pain, stiffness, swelling and reduced motion in the joints of the feet and ankles. Because each foot contains numerous joints that support your body during standing and walking, arthritis in these areas can significantly affect mobility and everyday activities.
Several types of arthritis can affect the foot and ankle, including osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis and arthritis that develops after an injury. Symptoms and treatment can vary depending on the joints involved and the type and severity of arthritis.
At Family Foot & Ankle Centers, our Waxahachie podiatrists evaluate foot and ankle arthritis to determine which joints are affected and develop an individualized treatment plan. Treatment may include nonsurgical options to reduce pain and improve function, with surgical treatment considered when appropriate.
The good news is that your Waxahachie Foot Specialists at Family Foot & Ankle Centers are experts at treating foot and ankle arthritis pain. There are several types of arthritis that commonly affect the lower extremity.
OSTEOARTHRITIS
Osteoarthritis is the most common form of arthritis and develops as the cartilage that cushions the ends of the bones within a joint gradually wears down. As the cartilage deteriorates, the joint may become painful, stiff and swollen, making walking and other activities more difficult.
In the foot and ankle, osteoarthritis may develop as part of the aging process or following years of stress on the joints. Previous injuries, abnormal foot mechanics and certain structural foot problems may also contribute to the development of arthritis.
Symptoms can vary depending on the joint involved and may include pain with activity, stiffness after periods of rest, swelling, tenderness and decreased range of motion. As arthritis progresses, some patients may also notice changes in the shape or function of the affected joint. Osteoarthritis is the most common form of arthritis in the foot and often develops later in life and is frequently referred to as “wear-and-tear” arthritis. While there is no cure for osteoarthritis, early treatment can significantly reduce symptoms, improve motion, and slow progression.
Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA)
RA often occurs in cycles of “flare-ups” and periods of remission. Without proper treatment, ongoing inflammation can lead to cartilage destruction, joint instability, and deformity.
Although there is no cure for RA, modern medical therapies have greatly improved outcomes. Early diagnosis and coordinated care can help preserve mobility and reduce long-term joint damage.
Treatment For Arthritis in the Foot or Ankle
reatment for foot and ankle arthritis depends on the type of arthritis, the joints affected, the severity of your symptoms and how the condition is affecting your daily activities. Treatment is typically focused on:
- Reducing pain and inflammation
- Maintaining or improving joint function
- Improving mobility and your ability to remain active
- Reducing stress on the affected joints
Non-Surgical Treatment Options
Medications
Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) may be recommended to help reduce pain and inflammation. Other medications may be considered depending on the type of arthritis, your symptoms and your overall health.
The goals of treatment are to:
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Reduce inflammation and pain
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Prevent further joint damage
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Improve mobility and function
Non-Surgical Treatment Options
Medications
Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) help reduce inflammation and pain. Other prescription medications may be recommended depending on the type of arthritis.
Supportive Footwear
Supportive shoes can help reduce stress on painful joints and improve walking comfort. Rocker-bottom shoes may be particularly helpful for certain types of foot and ankle arthritis by reducing motion through painful joints during walking.
Custom Orthotics & Bracing
Custom orthotics can help improve foot mechanics, redistribute pressure and reduce stress on painful joints. Depending on the location and severity of the arthritis, a brace may also be recommended to provide additional support and limit painful joint motion.
Physical Therapy & Exercise
Physical therapy and appropriate exercises may help maintain joint mobility, improve strength and reduce stiffness. The type of exercise recommended will depend on the joints affected and the severity of the arthritis.
Corticosteroid Injections
Corticosteroid injections may be considered for certain painful or inflamed joints to provide temporary relief of symptoms. Your podiatrist can determine whether an injection is appropriate based on the affected joint, type of arthritis and your individual condition.
Surgical Options
Surgery may be considered when foot or ankle arthritis causes persistent pain or loss of function that has not responded adequately to nonsurgical treatment. The type of procedure recommended depends on the joint involved, the severity of the arthritis, your activity level and other individual factors.
- Arthroscopy – In selected cases, minimally invasive arthroscopic surgery may be used to evaluate the joint and remove inflamed tissue, loose fragments or other sources of irritation.
- Joint Fusion (Arthrodesis) – Fusion permanently joins the bones of a painful arthritic joint, eliminating motion at that joint. It may be considered for severe arthritis in certain joints of the foot or ankle.
- Joint Replacement – For appropriately selected patients, a damaged joint may be replaced with an implant to reduce pain while preserving some joint motion. Ankle replacement may be an option for certain patients with advanced ankle arthritis.
Your podiatrist can discuss whether surgery is appropriate and explain the potential benefits, risks, alternatives and expected recovery for the procedure being considered.
Arthritis Care at Our Other Locations
Family Foot & Ankle Centers also provides foot and ankle arthritis care at our Corsicana and Ennis offices. Learn more about arthritis treatment in Corsicana or arthritis treatment in Ennis, or visit our main foot and ankle arthritis page for additional information about arthritis symptoms, diagnosis and treatment options.
Link only these three phrases:
- arthritis treatment in Corsicana → Corsicana arthritis page
- arthritis treatment in Ennis → Ennis arthritis page
- foot and ankle arthritis → Main arthritis page
Schedule an Appointment for Foot & Ankle Arthritis in Waxahachie, TX
If arthritis pain or stiffness is making it difficult to walk, exercise or perform your daily activities, schedule an appointment with our Waxahachie podiatry team. Our podiatrists can evaluate your foot or ankle, determine which joints are affected and recommend treatment options based on your individual condition. To learn more about our available treatments for arthritis, schedule an appointment today by calling us at 972-597-4132 or by clicking here to use our convenient online form.