Arthritis

Arthritis of The Foot & Ankle

Arthritis is inflammation resulting from the degeneration of cartilage in the joint causing pain, swelling, and stiffness in the joints resulting in restricted movements. Arthritis of the foot and ankle joint can occur due to fracture, dislocation, inflammatory disease, or congenital deformity. The foot joints most commonly affected by arthritis are:

Rheumatoid arthritis is a chronic inflammatory disease in which the lining of the joints become inflamed, causing pain, swelling and stiffness. It is an ‘autoimmune disease’ because it occurs when our immune system, which normally fights against infection, starts destroying healthy joints. Severe rheumatoid arthritis can be very painful and even deform or change a joint. It also affects a person's ability to perform routine activities.

Hallux rigidus is an arthritic condition characterized by stiffness and rigidity of the big toe. Arthritis of the foot commonly occurs at the big toe base. The condition can be quite painful as the big toe must bend with every step you take.