What a Podiatrist Can Do for You If You Have Foot Arthritis

As the name suggests, foot arthritis affects the feet and ankles. Osteoarthritis, or the wearing and tearing of joint cartilage, is the most common type affecting these body parts. The other arthritis variants that typically affect the feet are rheumatoid arthritis and post-traumatic arthritis. These conditions are serious and can lead to pain, stiffness, and deformity if not treated appropriately.

Fortunately, a podiatrist can help. Let’s talk about what they can do for you if you have foot arthritis and where you can find the best podiatrist in O’Fallon, MO.

They Can Diagnose Your Condition

Your podiatrist can evaluate your feet and ankles to determine the exact type of arthritis you have. They will conduct the assessment by doing the following:

• Taking a medical history
• Checking your range of motion
• Evaluating the alignment of your feet and ankles
• Feeling for tenderness in the joints

They will also observe how you move, take X-rays, and perform other tests as needed.

Once they have determined what type of arthritis you have, they can create a treatment plan tailored to your needs.

They Can Recommend Treatment Options

Your podiatrist can recommend treatments to reduce the pain and inflammation caused by foot arthritis. These may include:

Medication

Your podiatrist may recommend non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) to reduce inflammation and pain.

They may also suggest other medications if your arthritis is more severe. For example, they may prescribe corticosteroids or disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drugs (DMARDs).

Physical Therapy

Your podiatrist can prescribe exercises that help you move better and increase the range of motion in your feet and ankles.

They can also recommend cold and hot compresses to help reduce pain and swelling.

Custom Orthotics

Your podiatrist may recommend custom orthotics. These are specialized devices that:

• Can be fitted in your shoes to support your feet
• Reduce pressure on arthritic joints
• Improve gait mechanics
• Relieve discomfort

Surgery

In some cases, your podiatrist may recommend surgery. This could include joint fusion or arthrodesis to reduce pain and improve the stability of the affected joint.

They Can Provide Foot Care Advice

Care regimens are crucial for patients with foot arthritis. That’s because the condition tends to worsen over time if not managed properly.

Your podiatrist can advise on what you should do to maintain the health of your feet. This includes:

• Choosing shoes that fit properly and support your feet
• Keeping your feet clean and dry
• Protecting them from injuries
• Doing exercises regularly
• Eating a balanced diet
• Limiting activities that strain your feet and ankles

You must be doubly attentive to your feet and ankles if you have arthritis.

Often, patients with this condition don’t realize they’re doing something wrong until it’s too late. A podiatrist can help prevent this by providing guidance on how to care for your feet and ankles.

When to Visit Your Podiatrist for Foot Arthritis

If you have pain, stiffness, or swelling in your feet and ankles, it’s best to visit your podiatrist right away. Early diagnosis is vital because the condition can worsen over time if left untreated.

Your podiatrist will be able to recommend a treatment plan that works for you. With their help, you can manage your foot arthritis and return to living your life.

Why Choose a Podiatrist for Your Foot Arthritis

Podiatrists specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of foot and ankle conditions. They have the expertise to evaluate your condition accurately and recommend a course of treatment tailored to your needs.

In addition to providing relief from pain and inflammation, they also focus on preventive care. This means they can help you manage your foot arthritis and prevent it from worsening.

Ultimately, a podiatrist can provide the best care for your foot-related issues. They will take the time to understand your condition and create a plan that works for you. So make sure to contact one if you’re suffering from foot arthritis or any other kind of foot issue.

Trusted Podiatrist in O’Fallon, MO

Are you searching for a trusted podiatrist in O’Fallon, MO? Look no further than Advanced Bone & Joint. Our board-certified foot & ankle surgeon, Dr. Anthony Lombardo, can be your go-to podiatrist for foot arthritis. Aside from our orthopedic clinic in O’Fallon, he also caters to patients in St. Peters. If you suffer from arthritis symptoms in your joints, we can help you find relief.

To know more about our services or arrange a consultation, call our friendly staff today at (636) 229-4222 or fill out our convenient online appointment request form.

We look forward to helping you live a pain-free life!