Osteoarthritis can affect most joints in the body. In the feet, it occurs most commonly in the big toe joint. The ankle, arch of the foot and toes can also be affected. The condition can be a result of wear and tear over the years and is often seen with aging. It can also occur after an injury, such as a severe ankle sprain. If a joint is deformed, then osteoarthritis often occurs, such as in claw and hammer toes.The management of osteoarthritis involves a reduction of the pain, associated deformity and poor foot function so that you can continue to do your daily activities.The help of your physician, physical therapist and podiatrist, along with self-help, is necessary to manage osteoarthritis in the feet.
Instructions
1. Reduce the pain in the affected joint/s. This may involve a visit to your physician who can prescribe medication, such as anti-inflammatory drugs. Your physical therapist may use various methods to reduce pain in the joint, such as ultasound. Your podiatrist may prescribe othotics and apprporiate footwear to reduce the load on the painful joint.
2. Help yourself by preventing the risk of any associated problems, such as blisters, corns and calluses. You may need to change the style and even size of the shoe that you have been wearing to one that fits well and supports the foot.
3. Keep the affected joint mobile. This can be achieved by specific exercises that you can do at home. Your physical therapist and podiatrist will advise you. In some cases, this will not be indicated as it can cause more pain. Seek the help of your podiatrist and physical therapist before attempting any joint mobilization.
4. Consider surgery if your symptoms do not improve or are interfering with your lifestyle. Some joints may benefit from being surgically fused to prevent joint movement and hence pain. In other cases, the joint can be replaced. Speak to you podiatrist.
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