Understanding Arthritis

When you hear “arthritis,” what do you think of? If you’re like most people, your mind immediately goes to the condition experienced by an older person whose joints are wearing out—better known as osteoarthritis. But at Goldsmith Podiatry, we want to educate our Manhattan patients about this joint disease, which can disable your feet and ankles (as well as the rest of your body), regardless of age.
May is Arthritis Awareness Month and an excellent opportunity to share information about this condition, which afflicts one in four adults.

Not Just One Disease

One common misconception is that the disease described above is arthritis. While it’s true that it is a form of arthritis, the term arthritis is an umbrella description that covers over 100 conditions and diseases that affect the joints. Below are a few of the more common types of arthritis.

Osteoarthritis—sometimes referred to as “wear and tear” arthritis because it does tend to develop gradually as you age. This type of arthritis is by no means inevitable. You can do much to lower your risk of osteoarthritis, including exercising regularly, not smoking, and including enough calcium in your diet through food and supplements. Maintaining a healthy weight is particularly important for your feet because extra pounds put added stress and pressure on joints and can elevate your risk and osteoarthritis symptoms.

Gout—many patients who have experienced this painful condition—most often striking the joint at the base of the big toe—do not realize that it is a type of arthritis. Gout occurs due to excess amounts of uric acid in the body, which accumulate and crystallize in the joint. Gout may be triggered by certain foods such as shellfish, red meat, organ meats, beer, wine, or brandy.

Rheumatoid Arthritis—joint pain is just one part of this serious autoimmune disorder that involves chronic inflammation that frequently causes discomfort in knees and ankles. In addition, patients may suffer fatigue, weight loss, and serious medical problems with their eyes, lungs, nervous system, and heart.

Dealing with Joint Discomfort

If you experience pain, stiffness, limited range of motion, or even fatigue in the joints of your toes, feet, or ankles, it’s important to contact our Upper West Side office by calling 212-877-1002 for an appointment. Our podiatrists, Dr. Howard Goldsmith, Dr. Rosanna Troia, and Dr. Kristina Ruff, will evaluate your symptoms to determine if the cause is a form of arthritis or brought about by another podiatric condition.