Foot Arthritis Treatment in Lakeland, FL
Foot pain, stiffness, and swelling can make everyday activities difficult. Dr. William S. Wong provides podiatric evaluations and individualized treatment recommendations for patients experiencing arthritis-related foot pain.
Dr. William S. Wong, DPM
A graduate of the New York College of Podiatric Medicine and a Fellow of the American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons, Dr. Wong provides foot and ankle care for patients in Lakeland, Florida.
25+ Years in BusinessWhat Is Arthritis of the Foot?
Foot arthritis affects the joints of the foot and can cause pain, inflammation, stiffness, and difficulty moving.
Your feet contain numerous joints that work together to support body weight, absorb impact, and make walking possible. When a joint is affected by arthritis, everyday activities can become uncomfortable.
Arthritis can involve the toes, middle of the foot, rearfoot, or ankle. Symptoms and treatment options depend on the type of arthritis and which joints are affected.
Because different conditions can cause similar symptoms, an examination is important to determine whether arthritis is responsible for your foot pain.
Schedule a podiatric evaluation →
Common Foot Arthritis Symptoms
Foot arthritis symptoms vary depending on the affected joints, underlying cause, and severity of the condition.
Joint Pain
Aching, tenderness, or discomfort in affected foot joints, especially during walking, standing, or other activities.
Stiffness
Difficulty bending or moving an affected joint, sometimes more noticeable after a period of inactivity.
Swelling or Warmth
Inflammation near an affected joint may cause swelling, tenderness, warmth, or visible redness.
Difficulty Walking
Pain or limited joint movement may affect your ability to walk, climb stairs, or stand comfortably.
Reduced Mobility
A decreased range of motion can make it harder to bend the toes, move the ankle, or perform regular activities.
Changes in Joint Shape
Some types of arthritis may contribute to changes in joint alignment, shape, or the way the foot moves.
When Should You Have Your Foot Pain Evaluated?
Persistent foot pain, swelling, or stiffness deserves attention, particularly when it interferes with walking or daily activities. Sudden severe pain, a hot swollen joint, fever, or inability to bear weight may require prompt medical evaluation.
What Causes Foot Arthritis?
Arthritis can develop for several reasons. The underlying cause influences how symptoms develop and which treatments may be appropriate.
Osteoarthritis
Osteoarthritis involves changes in joint cartilage and surrounding structures. It often develops gradually and becomes more common with increasing age.
Post-Traumatic Arthritis
Arthritis can develop after an injury such as a fracture, severe sprain, or other damage involving a joint.
Inflammatory Arthritis
Conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis involve inflammation associated with immune system activity and may affect joints in both feet.
Other Joint Conditions
Gout and certain infections can also cause joint inflammation. Because these conditions require different management, an accurate diagnosis is important.
How Is Foot Arthritis Diagnosed?
Foot pain does not always indicate arthritis. Other conditions, including tendon injuries, stress fractures, and nerve problems, can produce similar symptoms.
A podiatric evaluation helps identify the source of discomfort and determine whether additional testing is necessary.
Reviewing Your Medical History
Discussion of symptoms, previous injuries, medical conditions, and how foot pain affects your daily activities.
Physical Examination
Evaluation of joint tenderness, swelling, movement, alignment, and other relevant findings.
Imaging or Additional Testing
X-rays may reveal changes affecting the bones and joints. Blood tests or additional imaging may be recommended in certain situations.
Foot Arthritis Treatment Options
Treatment depends on the type and severity of arthritis, affected joints, medical history, and individual needs. Nonsurgical treatment may be appropriate for many patients.
Supportive Footwear
Properly fitted shoes with appropriate support may help reduce unnecessary pressure and stress on painful joints.
Orthotics and Shoe Inserts
Inserts or custom orthotics may help support the foot, redistribute pressure, or reduce painful joint movement in appropriate cases.
Learn about orthotics →Medication
Depending on the diagnosis and your medical history, medications may be considered to help manage pain or inflammation.
Activity Modifications
Adjustments to certain activities or exercises may reduce strain on affected joints while helping maintain movement and function.
Joint Injections
In selected situations, injections may be discussed to help manage inflammation and discomfort. Suitability depends on the condition.
Foot and Ankle Surgery
Surgical options may be considered when symptoms remain significant despite appropriate conservative care or when a specific joint problem warrants intervention.
Explore surgical care →Is Surgery Necessary for Foot Arthritis?
Not necessarily. Many patients can begin with nonsurgical options. Surgical treatment is considered based on the diagnosis, severity of symptoms, functional limitations, and response to other treatments.
Living With Foot Arthritis
Everyday choices can affect joint comfort and mobility. Your podiatrist can help determine which adjustments are appropriate for your condition.
Helpful Daily Habits
- Wear comfortable, supportive footwear suitable for your foot condition.
- Consider lower-impact activities when appropriate.
- Follow prescribed treatment and rehabilitation recommendations.
- Monitor changes in symptoms and mobility.
Signs You Should Seek Evaluation
- Foot pain continues or becomes more frequent.
- Stiffness begins interfering with walking.
- Swelling returns repeatedly or becomes more pronounced.
- Joint motion or foot alignment noticeably changes.
Sudden or Severe Symptoms Need Attention
Sudden severe joint pain, marked swelling, redness, warmth, fever, or inability to bear weight may indicate a condition requiring prompt medical assessment. Do not assume these symptoms are simply a flare-up of existing arthritis.
Foot Arthritis FAQs
Answers to common questions about foot arthritis symptoms, evaluation, and treatment options.
Can arthritis of the foot be treated?
Yes. Treatment may help manage pain, inflammation, and limitations in joint function, although existing joint damage cannot always be reversed. Recommendations depend on the underlying type of arthritis.
Can orthotics help with foot arthritis?
Orthotics may help certain patients by supporting the foot, redistributing pressure, or limiting painful joint movement. A podiatric examination can help determine whether orthotics are appropriate.
Learn about orthotics →What makes foot arthritis symptoms worse?
Symptoms may worsen with activities that stress affected joints, prolonged standing, or footwear that provides insufficient support. Triggers can vary by the type and location of arthritis.
When should I see a podiatrist?
Consider an appointment when foot pain, swelling, or stiffness persists, returns frequently, or interferes with daily activities. Severe or sudden symptoms may require prompt medical attention.
Request an appointment →Does foot arthritis always require surgery?
No. Many patients begin with nonsurgical treatment options. Surgery may be considered when symptoms remain severe, conservative treatment is insufficient, or the joint condition requires intervention.
Learn about foot and ankle surgery →How is foot arthritis diagnosed?
Diagnosis typically begins with a medical history and physical examination. X-rays or other tests may be recommended when needed to identify joint changes or distinguish arthritis from other conditions.
Related Foot & Ankle Services
Learn about other services available at Lakeland Foot & Ankle.