Arthritis

Arthritis is a condition that affects a person’s joints, which are places where two bones meet. Between the two bones is a wafer of tissue known as cartilage. This cartilage is what protects the hard bones from coming into contact. When cartilage is damaged or wears out, the two bones begin to rub against each other, resulting in issues in the body. 

Joints are especially important because they allow for flexibility and movement. Because arthritis is a disease of the joints, it can seriously hinder a person’s mobility and can lead to pain, swelling caused by inflammation, and stiffness. While it is possible to have arthritis in any joint, it is most often found in a person’s hands, wrists, shoulders, knees, lower back, feet, and ankles. 

At Teton Foot & Ankle, we specialize in treating foot and ankle arthritis. Arthritis can be extremely painful and hinder your day-to-day life, but there are ways to find relief for your joints.

Arthritis of the Foot and Ankle 

Some joints are more prone to arthritis than others, and the joints of our feet and ankles have a great deal of pressure that passes through them at the same time that movement is required, whether that be running, walking, or even standing. This combination sets a person up for joint wear and tear.

Arthritis in the foot and ankle typically starts out as a slow onset of pain in the joint. As time passes, pain increases as the bones rub against each other more and more. When the condition worsens, bone spurs (bony outgrowths) are frequently noted around the joint. In most cases, this will limit the range of motion of the joint. If these spurs occur in the feet, then shoes are difficult to wear because of the rubbing that happens between the spur and the shoe.