The cause of arthritis can be degenerative (osteoarthritis) resulting from faulty biomechanics, trauma, overuse or injury. Arthritis can have systemic disease resulting from infection, rheumatoid, lupus, scleroderma, gout or charcot arthropathy.
The foot has 26 bones, 33 joints and over 100 tendons, ligaments and muscles. Whatever the cause, the arthritis causes inflammation, pain, stiffness and swelling. The joint becomes red and swollen and the ligament, muscles, tendon and bone are affected. Bone loss, degeneration or deformity can result. The foot is often affected with its many joints, tendons, ligaments and muscles being involved.
Arthritis can be treated with medication (anti inflammatory), injections, immobilization therapy, orthotics and bracing. Diagnosis is easily done with x-rays (we have digital x-rays in office) ultrasound, arthroscopy, lab test and MRI. The quicker the treatment the less damage will occur, loss of bone and permanent deformity can often times be avoided.
