Treating Arthritis in Liberty Township Ohio
Arthritis is inflammation of one or more of your joints. It can cause pain and stiffness in any joint in the body and is common in the small joints of the foot and ankle. Joints are surrounded by a thin lining called the synovium. The Synovial membrane is a layer of connective tissue that lines the cavities of joints, tendon sheaths, and bursae (fluid-filled sacs between tendons and bones). The synovial membrane makes synovial fluid, which has a lubricating function.
When you get arthritis in the foot, you develop pain and limited motion so that you cannot walk as well. The foot has 26 bones and more than 30 joints. Tough bands of tissue called ligaments hold these together. The muscles, tendons, and ligaments work together with the many joints of the foot to control motion. This smooth motion makes it possible for a person to walk well.
Liberty Township Ohio Arthritis Symptoms Treatment Methods
Symptoms of foot and ankle osteoarthritis often include:
- Tenderness or pain
- Reduced ability to move, walk, or bear weight
- Stiffness in the joint
- Swelling in the joint
Liberty Township Ohio Foot Arthritis Facts
Unfortunately, as we age, those 30 joints in the feet that have served us so well are highly susceptible to arthritis that can lead to foot pain. In fact:
- An estimated 40 million U.S. people suffer from arthritis
- 90% of people who suffer from rheumatoid arthritis experience pain in the foot and ankle joints
- Almost 50% of people in their 60s and 70s have arthritis-related foot pain
- An injured joint is seven times more likely to become arthritis over time
Common Treatment Methods for Arthritis of the Foot
1. Compression socks. Available at your local drug or grocery store, compression socks provide pain relief and prevent fluid collection in your legs, ankles, and feet.
2. Elevation.
3. Exercise.
4. Weight loss.
5. Epsom salt.
6. Magnesium supplements.
What Does Arthritis Feel Like in Feet?
How can I reduce inflammation in my feet? Here are some ideas that can help:
- Compression socks. Available at your local drug or grocery store, compression socks provide pain relief and prevent fluid collection in your legs, ankles, and feet.
- Elevation.
- Exercise.
- Weight loss.
- Epsom salt.
- Magnesium supplements.
When to Visit a Podiatrist
Because arthritis can affect the structure and function of the feet, it is important to see a doctor of podiatric medicine if any of the following symptoms occur in the feet:
- Swelling in one or more joints
- Recurring pain or tenderness in any joint
- Redness or heat in a joint
- Limitation in the motion of joint
- Early morning stiffness
- Skin changes, including rashes and growths
Meet Our Expert Podiatrist – Dr. Titko
Dr. Titko regularly conducts seminars and community lectures on foot health as a podiatrist. In the past, she has presented to The Arthritis Foundation, diabetic focus groups, area schools and other professional organizations.
TO BOOK AN APPOINTMENT OR CALL (513) 729-4455
Dr. Kristin Titko is an arthritis treatment specialist in Liberty Township Ohio. Visit her office today and get relief from your arthritis pain.