The tendons, ligaments, and 26 bones that the foot is comprised of are responsible for standing, walking, and absorbing the weight of the body.
Painful conditions involving the feet may occur as a result of improper foot care, working on your feet, or sporting activities. If you experience pain in the feet, in addition to any swelling or tightness, you may have what is referred to as arthritis. You may notice tingling in the feet, which may indicate a circulatory condition, and the joints may begin to look deformed. It’s important to maintain proper foot care, and this may be accomplished by washing and drying the feet completely and following by applying a moisturizer. The flexibility and movement of the feet may be significantly improved by incorporating exercise into your daily routine. Please consider scheduling a consultation with a podiatrist for additional information on how to take care of arthritic feet.
Arthritis can be a difficult condition to live with. If you are seeking treatment, contact Dr. Kenneth Donovan from Advanced Care Foot and Ankle. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Arthritic Foot Care
Arthritis is a term that is commonly used to describe joint pain.
The condition itself can occur to anyone of any age, race, or gender, and there are over 100 types of it.
Nevertheless, arthritis is more commonly found in women compared to men, and it is also more prevalent in those who are overweight. The causes of arthritis vary depending on which type of arthritis you have. Osteoarthritis for example, is often caused by injury, while rheumatoid arthritis is caused by a misdirected immune system.
Symptoms
- Swelling
- Pain
- Stiffness
- Decreased Range of Motion
Arthritic symptoms range in severity, and they may come and go. Some symptoms stay the same for several years but could potentially get worse with time. Severe cases of arthritis can prevent its sufferers from performing daily activities and make walking difficult.
Risk Factors
- Occupation – Occupations requiring repetitive knee movements have been linked to osteoarthritis
- Obesity – Excess weight can contribute to osteoarthritis development
- Infection – Microbial agents can infect the joints and trigger arthritis
- Joint Injuries – Damage to joints may lead to osteoarthritis
- Age – Risk increases with age
- Gender –Most types are more common in women
- Genetics – Arthritis can be hereditary
If you suspect your arthritis is affecting your feet, it is crucial that you see a podiatrist immediately. Your doctor will be able to address your specific case and help you decide which treatment method is best for you.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Warren, Livingston, and Toms River, NJ. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
