How Does a Podiatrist Treat Arthritis?

Over 30 million American adults report being told by a doctor that they have some type of arthritis. It is a major cause of lost work time and serious disability for many people. Although arthritis is mainly a disease of adults, children may also have it.

When a patient has arthritis, it means the cartilage and even the lining of their joints has become swollen and inflamed. Sometimes patients also experience increased fluid in their joints.

There are numerous types of arthritis. The reason that your feet seem to be more susceptible to arthritis that other parts of your body is that your feet have so many joints that can be affected. The odds are just stacked against your feet. In addition, your feet and ankles bear the full weight of your entire body every single day.

The key to treating arthritis in your feet is early detection and proper care from a podiatrist. Be vigilant in checking your feet every day and if you begin to experience stiffness (especially in the morning when you wake up and start walking), swelling, or redness just give us a call and let us check it out for you (419-423-1888).

While there are dozens of types of arthritis, here are the two most common:

Osteoarthritis
The most common type of arthritis is osteoarthritis. It is seen in many people as they age, although it may begin when they are younger as a result of injury or overuse. It is often more painful in weight bearing joints such as the knee, hip, and spine than in the waist, elbow, and should joints. All joints may be affected if they are used extensively or if they have been damaged from fractures or other injuries.

In osteoarthritis, the cartilage covering the ends of the bones gradually wears away. In many cases, bone growths called "spurs" can develop in osteoarthritis joints. The joint inflammation causes pain and swelling. continued use of the joint produces pain. Some relief may be possible through rest or modified activity.

Rheumatoid Arthritis
Rheumatoid Arthritis is a long-lasting disease that can affect many parts of the body, including the joints. Rheumatoid arthritis can affect people of all ages, even children. however, more than 70 percent of people with this disease are over 30 years old. Many joints of the body may be involved at the same time. Arthritis cannot be cured but it can be treated. The goals of treatment are to provide pain relief, increase motion, and improve strength.