Foot Arthritis

Osteoarthritis

This is a condition where the cartilage wears out due to abnormal wear and tear. Occasionally it is triggered by the immune system. Cartilage is the layer of soft tissue that covers the end of a bone and form a joint when it is connected together. As it becomes thinner, the bone becomes exposed, rubbing hard bone on hard bone where the nerve endings are.

As a general rule, it is better to keep using a painful arthritic joint rather than allow it to stiffen. 

Pain relief can be achieved a number of ways for chronic arthritis in the foot, including:

• Analgesics oral or topical (regular paracetamol. topical analgesics eg anti-inflammatory gels)
• Cortisone injections (not curative and only limited injections recommended)
• Orthotics or arch supports to remove pressure/stress to the affected joint
• Surgery (removing arthritis or fusing joints)