Midfoot arthritis affects the foot and is caused when the cartilage in the foot begins to wear down. Without the cushioning of cartilage, the midfoot joint bones start to rub together when one moves which can cause pain. Usually, midfoot arthritis develops slowly and worsens over time. The primary symptom of this type of arthritis is pain felt in the middle of the foot. The pain can worsen upon arising or after standing or walking for a prolonged time. One can also experience difficulty walking or a visible bump on the top of the foot that appears bony. In most cases, midfoot arthritis can be treated non-surgically. Lifestyle changes including activity modification, doing exercises to strengthen the surrounding joints and muscles, losing weight, taking pain medication, wearing proper footwear, and using walking aids can help. If the pain persists, surgery might be needed. If you feel pain in your midfoot, see a podiatrist who will be able to diagnose the cause and provide appropriate treatment options.
Arthritis can be a difficult condition to live with. If you are seeking treatment, contact Philip K. Schrumpf, DPM from Active Feet Clinic. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Arthritic Foot Care
Arthritis is a term that is commonly used to describe joint pain. The condition itself can occur to anyone of any age, race, or gender, and there are over 100 types of it. Nevertheless, arthritis is more commonly found in women compared to men, and it is also more prevalent in those who are overweight. The causes of arthritis vary depending on which type of arthritis you have. Osteoarthritis for example, is often caused by injury, while rheumatoid arthritis is caused by a misdirected immune system.
Symptoms
- Swelling
- Pain
- Stiffness
- Decreased Range of Motion
Arthritic symptoms range in severity, and they may come and go. Some symptoms stay the same for several years but could potentially get worse with time. Severe cases of arthritis can prevent its sufferers from performing daily activities and make walking difficult.
Risk Factors
- Occupation – Occupations requiring repetitive knee movements have been linked to osteoarthritis
- Obesity – Excess weight can contribute to osteoarthritis development
- Infection – Microbial agents can infect the joints and trigger arthritis
- Joint Injuries – Damage to joints may lead to osteoarthritis
- Age – Risk increases with age
- Gender –Most types are more common in women
- Genetics – Arthritis can be hereditary
If you suspect your arthritis is affecting your feet, it is crucial that you see a podiatrist immediately. Your doctor will be able to address your specific case and help you decide which treatment method is best for you.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Missoula, MT . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
