Arthritic Foot Care
Arthritis can strike at any age, but as we grow older, we’re more likely to experience this form of joint pain and stiffness. While there are over 700 types of arthritis the four most common forms that effect feet are: Osteoarthritis, Rheumatoid, Psoriatic Arthritis and Reiter’s Syndrome.
Osteoarthritis is the major form of arthritis and is just a result of years of wear and tear on your feet. It can affect any joint in your foot and is seen often in the toes. It can develop after breaking a bone, spraining an ankle or can be a result of structural imbalance.
Rheumatoid Arthritis is a systemic disease, which affects the whole body. Rheumatoid Arthritis can manifest its changes in all the joints and muscles in the foot. It affects women more than men and it often involves the joints becoming swollen and stiff and results in the collapsing of the arch and the toes clawing. Bunions are a common deformity resulting from Rheumatoid Arthritis. In addition changes in bone structure can result in callus and corn development.
Psoriatic Arthritis is a type of inflammatory arthritis that results in pain and swelling or stiffness in one or more joints. Sausage-like swelling in the toes is a common finding. Pain in and around the feet and ankles, especially tendonitis in the Achilles can often occur.
Reiter’s Syndrome is a type of reactive arthritis, meaning that it happens as a reaction to a bacteria infection in the body. Reiter syndrome includes joint swelling and pain often in ankles and feet.
While we can’t promise a miracle cure for arthritis (we wish!), we can offer a range of services to keep you as supple and flexible as possible. Hunt Footcare utilizes physical therapy, joint mobilization, ultrasound, stretching, and strengthening, discreet and lightweight braces for walking and sporting activity. In addition your Chiropodist can provide treatment for skin conditions associated with arthritic problems such as corns and calluses. Hunt Footcare will work closely with your family doctor and Rheumatologist to ensure the best care for your arthritic condition.