Arthritic Foot Pain

Arthritis is a disease characterized by the inflammation of the cartilage and lining of the joints. Inflammation causes redness, warmth, pain and swelling. There are two main types of arthritis that affect the foot, Osteoarthritis and Rheumatoid Arthritis. 

Osteoarthritis of the foot primarily affects the joint at the base of the big toe. Over time, the toe may become stiff and develop a noticeable bump on the top of the big toe joint. This condition often progresses, making the joint rigid, shoes that used to be comfortable begin to hurt and walking becomes more difficult.

Rheumatoid Arthritis is a systemic disease that attacks multiple joints throughout the body. About 90% of the people with Rheumatoid Arthritis eventually develop symptoms related to the foot or ankle. Sometimes, arthritis symptoms in the foot are the first indication that Rheumatoid Arthritis has developed. Arthritic foot pain is a serious condition that can be diagnosed and treated successfully (without surgery) by Board Certified Podiatric Surgeon, Dr. David P. Rosenzweig, DPM.

According to the American Podiatric Medical Association, the following signs may be symptomatic of arthritis:

  • Early morning stiffness of the foot or ankle
  • Swelling in one or more joints
  • Recurring pain or tenderness in any joint
  • Redness or heat in a joint of the foot
  • Limited movement of any joint
  • Skin changes, including rashes and growths on the foot or ankle

Effects of Osteoarthritis on the Foot:

  • Progressive stiffness and pain in a particular joint(s) of the foot
  • Initially presenting as corns and calluses
  • Development of bunion and hammertoe deformity, often creating crossover second toe
  • More advance stages of arthritic big toe / bunion (hallux rigidus) may require surgical realignment, implant or fusion

Effects of Rheumatoid Arthritis on the Foot:

  • The stiffness and inflammation is worse in the morning and after periods of inactivity
  • Painful, swollen feet
  • Soles of the feet may feel tender with the sensation of “walking on pebbles”.
  • Corns, calluses and ulcers may develop under the soles of the feet

Advanced Footcare Center
90 South Ridge Street
Rye Brook, New York 10573
T: (914) 937-7077
E: info@footdoctorcenters.com