Arthritis and Feet
Could I have arthritis in my feet?Absolutely! Arthritis – which is either damage to or inflammation of a
joint - can affect any joint in your body. Your feet are especially
prone to develop arthritis because each foot has 33 joints and they take
a tremendous amount of pressure every day. Your symptoms may include
aching or generalized pain in one joint or an entire area of your foot.
Treatment of Foot ArthritisAn arthritic joint or joints will benefit from an evaluation by Dr.
Huppin or Dr. Hale. It is important to verify the amount of damage, if
any, to the joint. Just like any joint in your body that has arthritis,
it benefits from protection. The unique problem with foot arthritis is
the fact that we have to keep walking on it. Our job is to help them
work with less stress and less pain. Don’t live with foot pain,
make an
appointment today to see us in our Seattle Foot and Ankle Clinic.
Orthotics Protect Arthritic Joints in the FeetWe often prescribe custom foot orthotics for our patients with
arthritis. The job of foot orthotics in this situation is to limit
motion of damaged joints. By limiting the motion we usually reduce pain.
To best limit motion in the mid-portion of the foot we prescribe
orthotics that conforms very tightly to the arch of the foot. These are
called
“total contact foot orthotics”.
Shoes for Foot ArthritisGenerally, shoes which are deeper and a little stiffer protect the
joints from too much motion. We work with all of our patients to help
them find shoes that not only help their feet but also fit their
lifestyle. In addition we can prescribe
shoe modifications that protect
arthritic joints.
Special CircumstancesA severe arthritis, such as
rheumatoid arthritis, may need special
accommodation and protection. It is suggested that you work with a team
of specialists, including a rheumatologist, podiatrist and physical
therapist, to assure that a long term care plan is established. You may
need to consider special shoes, or even custom made shoes to make room
for the bone changes that have occurred. Often, the most pain deformity
occurs in the ball of the foot. Special orthotics are available which
provide cushioning and shock absorption.
Common Types of Arthritis that Affect the Feet
Don’t live with pain in your feet. If you have are experiencing
symptoms call
today for an evaluation in our convenient Seattle office.
WEBSITE DISCLAIMER
For website errors ONLY email webmaster at
WEBMASTER
All pages on this website © 2005-2010
Douglas Hale, DPM & Lawrence Huppin, DPM
Foot and Ankle Center of Washington, Seattle
The material provided on this web site is for informative purposes only.
If you need specific medical advice, please contact the office for an appointment.
