The Dreaded “A” Word
We can all agree that the dreaded “C” word (cancer) is probably the worst one when it comes to our health. Well, there is a dreaded word, not as scary, when it comes to foot health. That word is ARTHRITIS! Just like the shoulder, back, knee and hip, the foot is prone to arthritis. The dreaded part of it is when it happens to an area that has almost no chance of a cure.
The top of the mid foot is that dreaded area. We’re referring to the area between the toes and ankles. Multiple joints are usually involved. Unlike the bigger named joints, there isn’t a replacement procedure for midfoot arthritis. Pain is often the only indication something is wrong. The other signs often seen are swelling and a raised area compared to the opposite foot.
Arthritis can occur in any joint in the foot and ankle. Arthritis of the big toe joint and ankle are as common as the mid foot. These two joints can be replaced if severe enough. Like any foot or ankle condition, early diagnosis is critical when it comes to arthritis.
We have more symptom-relieving options than ever if caught early enough. REGENERATIVE therapies have never been better for degenerative conditions such as arthritis. Shockwave Therapy, Class IV laser therapy and regenerative injection therapy are proven methods of providing relief of arthritis.
There is no way to know if arthritis is the cause of foot or ankle pain without an x-ray and professional evaluation. Arthritis can affect the foot as young as 40 years of age. Genetics does play an unfortunate role. Procrastinating when it comes to treatment of foot or ankle pain can have long-term consequences both mentally and physically.
We have methods of providing lasting relief of foot or ankle pain especially when the diagnosis is arthritis. If you are feeling foot pain at this time, it could be due to arthritis. Effortless mobility is always the goal for our patients.