How to Avoid Arthritis in Feet

Over 350 million people worldwide suffer from arthritis, making it one of the most common conditions among older adults. While it can affect various parts of the body, such as the hands, fingers, knees, hips, and wrists, it can be particularly debilitating when present in the feet, as they are in constant use and involved in most daily activities. By reading this article, you will learn about arthritis, how it can impact you, and how to avoid arthritis in your feet.

What is Arthritis?

Arthritis is a common condition among older adults, with over 100 different types. It can have various causes, including joint injuries, repetitive motion, genetics, autoimmune diseases, infections, and obesity. The most common form is osteoarthritis, which develops when the cartilage that protects the ends of your bones in your joints wears down to the point where they may rub against each other. The second most common type is rheumatoid arthritis, an autoimmune disease in which the immune system mistakenly attacks healthy joint tissue, leading to inflammation. Some typical arthritis symptoms include the following:

Joint pain

Stiffness

Swelling

Redness

Limited range of motion

These symptoms can restrict a person’s ability to move or perform certain activities. Although arthritis usually worsens with age, it can also be present in younger individuals.

How Does Arthritis Present in Feet?

Individuals with arthritis in their feet often feel pain in their toes, arch, or ball of the foot, and may sometimes hear grinding and popping in their joints while walking. This pain is typically most intense when walking or standing, which can make walking or wearing certain shoes difficult. However, rest can often help alleviate arthritis symptoms. As in other parts, stiffness, swelling, warmth, and redness are often present. Joints in the ankles and toes may also change in appearance and become larger.

How to Avoid Arthritis in Feet?

There are various ways to keep your feet healthy and prevent arthritis, from maintaining a healthy weight to reduce unnecessary pressure, to wearing appropriate, supportive, and well-cushioned footwear for your activities.

Additionally, ensuring that you stay active by going for walks and engaging in low-impact exercises, while also taking sufficient breaks, is critical. Some exercises specifically designed to improve flexibility and joint stability in your feet can also be beneficial. Finally, treating injuries early on and eating an anti-inflammatory diet will help not only to prevent arthritis but also to improve your overall well-being.

How to Treat Arthritis in Your Feet?

Even if you have already developed arthritis in your feet, the above measures, such as losing weight, leading a healthy lifestyle and engaging in low-impact exercise, can be helpful. However, you may need extra support in managing and treating your condition. This may include heat and cold therapy, physical therapy, regular foot stretches and using braces or custom orthotics.

Additionally, various anti-inflammatory medications like Ibuprofen are available to counteract swelling and pain. Prescription medication, including Arthrotec and Celebrex can also be effective. In severe cases, steroid injections like Amjevita are available, and even foot surgery can be considered. Working closely with your healthcare provider and combining some of these methods to find what works best for you can help you stay active and enjoy the activities you love without arthritis pain holding you back.