The Importance of Arthritic Foot Care

When your feet ache with every step, even simple daily activities become challenging. At Marvel Foot & Ankle Centers, our experienced podiatrists regularly help East Valley residents identify and treat various types of arthritis affecting their feet.

With several decades of combined experience, our team understands how different forms of arthritis can impact your mobility and quality of life. We provide comprehensive care at our Gilbert and Chandler locations to help you manage your symptoms effectively and return to the active lifestyle you deserve.

Common Types of Foot Arthritis

Various forms of arthritis affect your feet differently and require a specific approach to treatment. Our team conducts thorough examinations to help you understand your particular condition. Then, we work together on a custom treatment plan. Here are just a few of the conditions we treat. 

Osteoarthritis

Most often affects the big toe joint but can also develop in your midfoot or ankle. This wear-and-tear arthritis gradually breaks down joint cartilage, causing pain and stiffness.

Rheumatoid Arthritis

Unlike other forms, this autoimmune condition typically affects the same joints in both feet simultaneously. Early treatment is crucial to prevent joint damage.

Gout

This painful condition, which primarily affects the big toe, occurs when uric acid crystals accumulate in the joint. Quick intervention can help prevent chronic problems.

Psoriatic Arthritis

Creates distinctive toe swelling that makes wearing shoes uncomfortable. Our team helps you find appropriate footwear solutions while treating the underlying condition.

Ankylosing Spondylitis

Often leads to heel pain through plantar fasciitis or Achilles tendon inflammation. We offer targeted treatments to address these specific complications.

Manage Risk Factors of Arthritic Foot Pain With Our Proven Strategies

Several factors increase your risk of developing more complications with arthritis: 

• Genetics. Family history plays a role in arthritis development. Early intervention is especially important if you have relatives with this condition.
• Weight management. Extra pounds put additional stress on your feet. Our team can suggest different types of movement that help you stay active while protecting your joints.
• Age. While we can't control getting older, we can help you be more proactive in maintaining joint health through proper foot care and appropriate exercise.

At Marvel Foot & Ankle Centers, we're ready to help you defeat the foe of foot discomfort with solutions that save the day.

Our professional treatment options are a secret weapon in managing arthritic symptoms more effectively. 

Some of our recommendations may include: 

• Custom orthotics. Specially designed inserts provide targeted support for arthritic joints while improving overall foot function.
• Advanced therapies. We utilize state-of-the-art treatments, including regenerative medicine, to help reduce inflammation and promote healing.
• Footwear guidance. Our team helps you select appropriate shoes that accommodate your condition while providing necessary support.
• Pain management. We develop comprehensive plans that may include both medication and physical therapy to control discomfort.

Daily Foot Care Tips for Arthritis Management

Proper foot care is essential for managing arthritic conditions, too. Plan your routine to include:

• Regular inspection. Check your feet daily for any changes in appearance or new areas of pain.
• Proper hygiene. Maintain clean, dry feet and carefully trim toenails to prevent complications.
• Moisture balance. Use appropriate moisturizers to prevent skin cracks while keeping between-toe areas dry.
• Temperature therapy. Apply ice or heat as recommended for your specific condition.

Don't let foot arthritis limit your active lifestyle. Through proactive care and a dynamic health-focused partnership with our skilled team, you'll be well on your way to enjoying more of what you love.