Each foot has more than 30 joints, and each of them can develop arthritis. Arthritis in the foot and ankle causes pain, stiffness and swelling, and it can make walking difficult. Treatment depends on the type of arthritis and the joint involved.
Common types
- Osteoarthritis: wear of the joint cartilage, which is the most common type
- Post-traumatic arthritis: arthritis that develops after a fracture or ligament injury, sometimes years later
- Inflammatory arthritis: such as rheumatoid and psoriatic arthritis, caused by the immune system
- Gout: crystals in a joint, often the big toe, causing sudden severe pain and swelling
Commonly affected joints
The big toe joint (hallux rigidus), the midfoot, the joints just below the ankle, and the ankle itself are the most common sites.
Symptoms
- Joint pain that is worse with activity and may ache after rest
- Stiffness, especially in the morning
- Swelling, warmth or tenderness around the joint
- Reduced motion, or bone spurs you can feel
- Difficulty walking, standing or wearing shoes
How it is diagnosed
Diagnosis includes an examination and weight-bearing X-rays. CT, MRI or blood tests may be added to look at the joint more closely or to check for inflammatory arthritis.
Non-surgical treatment
- Supportive shoes, sometimes with a stiff or rocker-bottom sole
- Orthotics, and braces such as AFOs for the ankle
- Activity changes and weight management
- Anti-inflammatory medicines and injections, chosen for you
- Physical therapy
- Treating the underlying cause for inflammatory arthritis and gout
Surgical options
When non-surgical care no longer controls pain, surgery may help. Options include removing bone spurs, cleaning out the joint, fusing a painful joint, and, for selected patients, total ankle replacement. The right choice depends on the joint, your age, activity level and overall health. See services for the procedures offered.
Dr. Ajdari sees patients in Metairie on the Southshore and in Slidell on the Northshore, serving the Greater New Orleans area. Request an appointment or call 985-326-8614.
This page is for general education and is not a substitute for an examination and advice from a qualified clinician. Treatment recommendations depend on your individual situation. If you think you may have a medical emergency, call 911.