Foot & Ankle Arthritis

Foot & Ankle Arthritis Overview

Arthritis is inflammation of joint bone and cartilage. Foot and ankle arthritis causes symptoms that can make it difficult to walk or even stand. Patients are encouraged to make an appointment with a Carolina Orthopaedic and Neurosurgical Associates’ (CONA) foot and ankle specialist as soon as symptoms present.

Symptoms & Causes

Foot and ankle arthritis symptoms include:

  • Decreased range of motion
  • Pain
  • Stiffness
  • Swelling
  • Tenderness

Foot and ankle arthritis causes include:

  • Age
  • An accident or injury

Common Treatments:

Nonsurgical treatment options treat most cases of foot and ankle arthritis. After a thorough evaluation, a CONA shoulder specialist may recommend:

  • Immobilization in a cast, splint or boot
  • Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications (NSAIDs)
  • Orthotics
  • Physical therapy
  • Rest, ice, compression, elevation (RICE)
  • Shoe inserts
  • Steroid injections

Surgery may be recommended to treat severe foot and ankle arthritis that does not respond to nonsurgical treatment. CONA foot and ankle specialists perform minimally invasive and traditional procedures to treat foot and ankle arthritis.

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