Does your foot or ankle arthritis ever stop you from doing the things you want to do? Your Clinton, MD, podiatrists at Family Foot and Ankle Associates offer treatments that will ease your pain and make walking easier. Their offices are conveniently located in Olney, Camp Springs/Clinton, Silver Spring, and Kensington, MD.
What are the signs and symptoms of foot and ankle arthritis?
Arthritis symptoms may vary depending on whether you have osteoarthritis, post-traumatic arthritis, or rheumatoid arthritis. Osteoarthritis is due to wear and tear, while post-traumatic arthritis occurs as a result of an injury. Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disease that attacks the joints.
Signs and symptoms of arthritis in your foot or ankle may include:
- Pain: Pain may increase when you move or exercise. You may notice that your pain is worse in the morning or after you've been resting for a while.
- Tenderness Over the Joint: You may notice pain or soreness when you press on the joint.
- Redness: The skin over the joint may feel warm and look red.
- Swelling: Arthritic foot or ankle joints may become stiff and swollen, which can make walking and standing difficult or painful.
What you can do to relieve your arthritis symptoms
Over-the-counter anti-inflammatories, like ibuprofen and naproxen sodium, may reduce pain and swelling. Ice also decreases pain and inflammation, while heat can reduce stiffness.
Although running a marathon might not be the best idea if you have foot or ankle arthritis, low-impact exercise, like swimming, cycling, or water aerobics, may help you manage your pain and keep your foot or ankle flexible.
If your pain doesn't improve, or you have trouble walking or standing, schedule an appointment at the Olney, Camp Springs/Clinton, Silver Spring, and Kensington, MD, podiatry offices. Your foot doctor can offer you a variety of treatments that may be helpful, including:
- Prescription pain relievers
- Prescription medications that prevent your immune system from attacking your joints if you have rheumatoid arthritis
- Corticosteroid injections to relieve pain and inflammation
- Physical therapy to reduce stress on joints, decrease stiffness and strengthen the muscles that support your joints
- Braces that support your ankle and improve mobility
- Orthotics, prescription shoe inserts that support your foot and decrease pressure
- Surgery to remove inflamed tissues and loose cartilage, remove bone spurs, or fuse bones in the joint
Improve your arthritis pain with a visit to your podiatrist in Clinton, MD! Make your appointment with the doctors at Family Foot and Ankle Associates by calling (301) 924-5044 for the Olney office, (301) 868-7670 for the Camp Springs office, (301) 439-0300 for the Silver Spring office, or (301) 942-8110 for the Kensington office.