Foot Arthritis

Ankle Joint The connection between the shin bone (tibia) and the ankle bone (talus).
Midfoot Joints: The three joints of the foot involving the heel bone (calcaneus), inner mid-foot bone (navicular), and outer mid-foot bone (cuboid).
Great Toe Joint: The joint of the great toe (hallux) and the foot bone (first metatarsal).

Osteoarthritis: The most common form, characterised by the gradual wearing away of cartilage, leading to pain, stiffness, and bone-on-bone contact.
Rheumatoid Arthritis: An autoimmune condition where the body’s immune system attacks healthy joints, often affecting the same joints on both sides of the body simultaneously.
Post-traumatic Arthritis: Develops after an injury such as a fracture or dislocation, potentially arising years after the initial trauma.
Gout/Pseudogout Arthritis: Caused by the build-up of uric acid crystals in the joints, leading to pain and inflammation.

Age: Natural wear and tear of cartilage as you age.
Genetics: Family history of arthritis or joint issues.
Previous Injuries: Fractures, dislocations, or severe sprains can lead to post-traumatic arthritis.
Obesity: Increased weight puts extra stress on foot joints.
Repetitive Stress:Overuse from activities like running or standing for long periods.
Autoimmune Conditions: Diseases like rheumatoid arthritis where the immune system attacks healthy joints.
Gout: Accumulation of uric acid crystals in the joints.
Infections: Joint infections that can cause or exacerbate arthritis.

The Symptoms

Tenderness and pain when touching or moving the joint.
Difficulty moving, walking, or bearing weight.
Joint stiffness, warmth, and swelling.
Increased pain and swelling after periods of rest, such as after sitting or sleeping.

The Diagnosis

Medical History: The doctor will inquire about symptoms, previous injuries, family medical history, and the impact on your lifestyle.
Physical Examination: The affected area is examined for swelling, pain, and range of motion.
Diagnostic Testing: May include X-rays, Ultrasound (US), CT scans, or MRI to determine the extent and specific cause of the arthritis.

Stages of Foot Arthritis:

Early Stages: Sharp and intense pain in the affected joints.
Later Stages: The pain evolves into a dull ache, spreading across a larger area of the joint.

Surgical

Arthroscopic Surgery: Minimally invasive surgery to clean the joint of foreign tissue or bone spurs.
Arthroplasty (Joint Replacement): Replacing the damaged joint with an artificial implant, usually for severe cases.
Arthrodesis (Fusion): Permanently stiffening the joint using plates and screws, often for joints already with limited motion.

Non-Surgical

Rest: Limiting activity to reduce symptoms.
Pain Medication: Over-the-counter options like Paracetamol, Ibuprofen, or NSAIDs.
Exercise Training: Physical therapy to strengthen the area and reduce pain.
Shoewear Modification and Orthotics: Custom or accommodative footwear and shoe inserts to support the foot.
Injection Therapies: Corticosteroids to reduce inflammation.