Arthritis Foot Care: Managing Joint Pain and Maintaining Mobility

Living with arthritis in your feet can make even the simplest daily activities challenging. Walking to the letterbox, standing in the kitchen, or enjoying a gentle stroll can all become uncomfortable when painful, stiff joints limit movement. Arthritis is one of the most common causes of foot pain in older adults, and it is a condition that requires careful, ongoing management.

At My Family Podiatry, we regularly see patients who are managing arthritis in their feet and ankles. While there is no cure, there are many effective strategies to reduce pain, improve mobility, and keep you active for as long as possible. This blog will explain what arthritis is, how it affects the feet, what treatments are available, and when it is time to seek professional help.

Understanding Arthritis in the Feet

Arthritis is an umbrella term for joint deterioration that causes pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility. In the feet, arthritis often affects the toes, midfoot, and ankle. The most common types we see in podiatry include:

• Osteoarthritis: Wear-and-tear arthritis where the protective cartilage breaks down over time.

• Rheumatoid arthritis: An autoimmune condition that causes the body to attack joint tissues, often leading to deformity.

• Post-traumatic arthritis: Arthritis that develops after an injury such as a fracture or sprain.

• Gout: A type of arthritis caused by uric acid crystal deposits, often affecting the big toe joint.

Because your feet contain 33 joints, they are particularly vulnerable to arthritis changes. Early recognition and proactive management are essential for maintaining function.

Common Symptoms of Arthritic Feet

Arthritis symptoms vary depending on the type and severity, but common signs include:

• Persistent joint pain that worsens with activity

• Stiffness, particularly in the morning or after sitting

• Swelling, redness, or warmth around affected joints

• Difficulty fitting into shoes due to joint enlargement

• Reduced range of motion in toes or ankles

• Deformities such as bunions, hammertoes, or collapsed arches

If these symptoms sound familiar, it is important not to dismiss them as "just ageing." Effective care can significantly improve your comfort and mobility.

Pain Management Strategies

Footwear Adjustments

Wearing the right shoes can make an enormous difference. Look for shoes with firm midsoles, cushioned footbeds, and wide toe boxes that reduce pressure on sore joints. Avoid high heels and unsupportive footwear like thongs, as these can worsen pain.

Orthotics

Custom foot orthotics redistribute pressure across the foot and reduce stress on arthritic joints. At My Family Podiatry, we use 3D scanning technology to design orthotics tailored to your foot structure and activity needs.

Exercise and Movement

Gentle, low-impact exercises keep joints mobile and maintain strength. Calf stretches, ankle circles, and water-based activities are particularly beneficial. Your podiatrist can prescribe specific exercises suited to your condition.

Weight Management

Extra body weight increases the load on arthritic feet. Even modest weight loss can significantly reduce joint pain and improve function.

Shockwave Therapy

For certain arthritis-related pain, particularly when soft tissues are also affected, shockwave therapy may provide relief. At our clinic, we offer both radial and focused EMS Dolorclast shockwave therapy, which help reduce pain and stimulate healing.

Maintaining Mobility with Arthritis

Arthritis does not have to stop you from staying active. With the right approach, you can continue to enjoy many of the things you love.

• Use mobility aids when needed: Walking sticks or supportive braces can reduce stress on painful joints and help reduce fall risks.

• Modify activities: Swap high-impact sports for gentler options like cycling, swimming, or walking on soft surfaces.

• Pace yourself: Break tasks into smaller steps and take regular rests to prevent flare-ups.

Professional Treatment Options

When home strategies are not enough, podiatrists can provide tailored care. At My Family Podiatry, our arthritis foot care services include:

• Comprehensive assessment: We examine your walking pattern, joint movement, and footwear.

• Imaging referrals: X-rays or ultrasounds may be recommended to confirm arthritis severity.

• Custom orthotics: Designed to support your foot and reduce painful pressure points. By reducing the load on painful joints, we can help with pain and slow the progression of arthritic change.

• Shockwave therapy: Both radial and focused, depending on the tissue structures involved.

• Nail and skin care: Thickened nails and corns often worsen with arthritis. Regular podiatry care reduces discomfort.

• Surgical referral: For severe arthritis or joint deformities, we can refer you to orthopaedic surgeons for further options.

When to See a Podiatrist for Arthritis

You should seek podiatry care if you experience:

• Foot pain lasting more than a few weeks

• Difficulty walking due to stiffness or swelling

• Shoes that no longer fit comfortably due to joint changes

• Pain that interferes with sleep or daily activities

• Recurring corns, calluses, or wounds linked to arthritis deformities

Early podiatry intervention can slow arthritis progression and prevent complications such as falls or ulcers.

FAQs About Arthritis Foot Care

What helps arthritis in feet the most?

A combination of supportive footwear, custom orthotics, gentle exercise, and podiatry care provides the best results.

Can arthritis in the feet be cured?

No, but symptoms can be managed effectively to improve quality of life.

Is surgery always required for arthritis?

No. Surgery is considered only for severe cases where conservative care has not provided relief.

Can orthotics really help with arthritis?

Yes. Orthotics can reduce pressure on arthritic joints, support proper alignment, and improve walking comfort.

What shoes are best for arthritis foot pain?

Look for shoes with cushioning, arch support, a firm heel counter, and wide toe box. Avoid high heels or completely flat shoes.

Arthritis in the feet is common, but it does not mean you have to live with constant pain or reduced mobility. With the right strategies, you can manage symptoms, maintain your independence, and continue doing the activities you enjoy.

At My Family Podiatry in Albany Creek, our team specialises in helping patients manage arthritis foot pain through tailored treatment plans. Whether you need footwear advice, orthotics, shockwave therapy, or routine care, we are here to support your long-term foot health.

Click the button below to book your appointment and take the first step toward comfortable, active living with arthritis.

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