5 Facts About Arthritis You Need to Know

Last year, for National Arthritis Awareness Month, we at Goldsmith Podiatry focused on debunking myths about this painful inflammatory condition. This year, we’re going to uncover more information, this time in the form of cold, hard facts. Let's explore five fast facts about foot and ankle arthritis.

Arthritis Isn’t Just “Wear and Tear”

Many people think of foot and ankle arthritis solely as osteoarthritis, which results from years of wear and tear. However, just like arthritis in other parts of the body, it encompasses over 100 different conditions that can affect the lower extremities.

For instance, we frequently see patients with rheumatoid arthritis, an autoimmune disorder that often targets the small joints of the feet and ankles, or gout, a painful inflammatory arthritis caused by uric acid buildup in the big toe.

Arthritis Can Happen to All Ages

While the prevalence of foot and ankle arthritis increases with age, it's not solely a concern for seniors. Children and teenagers can experience juvenile arthritis affecting their feet and ankles, potentially impacting growth and development.

In the 40s and 50s, inflammatory types like rheumatoid or psoriatic can have its onset, whereas younger adults can develop post-traumatic arthritis following an ankle sprain or foot fracture. Podiatrists are equipped to diagnose and manage arthritis in patients of all ages.

Early Intervention Helps Arthritis

Early treatment is known to prevent progressive joint damage. For instance, recognizing early signs of rheumatoid arthritis in the feet can lead to timely referrals to rheumatologists and the use of disease-modifying medications. Similarly, early podiatric intervention for biomechanical issues contributing to osteoarthritis in the ankle can help slow its progression and maintain foot function.

Lifestyle Plays a Role in Arthritis

It isn’t all about treatments and medications when it comes to arthritis care. Maintaining a healthy weight significantly reduces stress on weight-bearing joints in the feet and ankles, while appropriate footwear is crucial for minimizing pain and supporting joint stability.

Engaging in regular, low-impact exercises, as recommended by a physical therapist or podiatrist, is also proven to keep the joints fluid and the surrounding muscles strong.

Arthritis is Linked to Systemic Health

Podiatrists are also aware that arthritis can have systemic effects that manifest in the feet and ankles. For example, rheumatoid arthritis can cause rheumatoid nodules on the feet, and psoriatic arthritis can lead to characteristic nail changes, such as pitting or thickening.

Recognizing these extra-curricular signs is important for a comprehensive understanding of the patient's condition and for effective collaboration with other specialists. At Goldsmith, podiatric care involves considering the whole patient and the systemic implications of their arthritis.

Start today. Your feet will thank you tomorrow. For more advice when it comes to your foot health and wellness, give us a call at (212) 877-1002 so Dr. Howard Goldsmith, Dr. Rosanna Troia, and Dr. Kristina T. Ruff at Goldsmith Podiatry can help alleviate any podiatric problems you’re facing.