Foot and ankle arthritis is characterized by inflammation that occurs in the joints of the foot and ankle, causing swelling, pain, loss of joint function, stiffness and impaired walking ability. While there are different forms of arthritis, the most common form of arthritis that affects the feet and ankle is osteoarthritis. Osteoarthritis occurs when the natural cartilage between the bones wears down within the joint from wear and tear over the years. Other causes are rheumatoid arthritis, psoriatic arthritis, reactive arthritis, and post-traumatic arthritis.
Did you know…
There are 3 bones that make up the ankle joint and 28 bones in the foot that make up 33 joints? The two feet combined have 1/4 of all the bones in your body!
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I have foot & ankle arthritis?
If you notice swelling around the joints in your feet or ankle, tenderness when applying pressure, pain that occurs with motion or increased activity, and increased pain during long periods of rest followed by motion, then you might have foot and ankle arthritis. However, only Dr. Hadfield can officially diagnose foot and ankle arthritis, so if you think you may be affected by foot and ankle arthritis, book a consultation today!
How will Dr. Hadfield diagnose and treat foot & ankle arthritis?
To diagnose foot & ankle arthritis, Dr. Hadfield will perform a physical examination and ask you about your medical history. He will also perform x-rays to determine the severity of the problem and the best course of treatment.
To treat your foot and ankle arthritis, Dr. Hadfield usually suggests lifestyle modifications, physical therapy, medications, the use of specialized orthotics or braces, or some combination of these. In some severe cases, surgery may also be an option. Depending on your individual case, Dr. Hadfield will discuss what the best option is for you.
What can I expect after being treated for foot & ankle arthritis?
Although foot and ankle arthritis cannot be cured, there are a few things that can be done to manage the condition. Reduced high impact activity, orthotic shoe inserts and proper shoe gear are essential to this long term strategy. As part of your treatment plan, Dr. Hadfield will offer you techniques to manage your arthritis on a extended basis. To achieve the best outcome, it is essential to follow these directions.
Dr. Hadfield of Hadfield Foot & Ankle has been serving McKinney and the surrounding Collin County area by providing excellent care to patients through highly skilled conservative and surgical treatments, as well as superior customer service. If you have foot or ankle concerns, schedule a consultation with Dr. Hadfield today and take your next step forward!