Getting older does not get easier and as you grow older, the pain and stiffness in the feet and ankles could be osteoarthritis, also known as degenerative joint disease (DJD). Osteoarthritis foot pain is the most common type of arthritis and is a consequence of the wear and tear to the joint cartilage that comes with aging. Arthritis is often felt as a deep achy pain that worsens with physical activity such as prolonged standing and walking. You may also feel morning stiffness in the feet that last for an hour or less. Because there is joint space narrowing and the cartilage is worn out, the bones in the foot can rub against each other during movement called crepitus.

The following are treatments that may be considered by your doctor or podiatrist for osteoarthritis in the feet:

• Shoe gear, bracing, or orthotics: Rocker bottom shoe, lace up ankle brace, or CAM boot
• Oral Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) – ibuprofen
• Stretching/ Physical Therapy – calf leg stretches
• Topical solution – capsaicin, Icy Hot
• Injections – Steroid
• Surgery (only arthritis treatable with surgery) – joint fusion or replacement

Osteoarthritis, when left untreated, can be a bothersome ongoing pain that can worsen to the point of no longer walking. This severe arthritis can be an obstacle in you leading a happy quality of life so it is important to see your doctor or podiatrist to slow down the progression of arthritis and to control the pain. Call your podiatrist today for the proper treatment of arthritis in order to lead a more active and productive life!

Please visit our website for more information or call 614-885-3338 (FEET) to schedule an appointment with us at our Columbus or Gahanna office