Arthritis is a disease that affects the joints, and causes pain, stiffness, degeneration, inflammation, swelling, and deformities. An orthopedist or orthopedic surgeon can diagnose and treat arthritis of the foot and ankle. There are many different types of arthritis, but three of them primarily affect the foot and ankle. Keep reading to learn about the signs and symptoms of osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and post-traumatic arthritis.

Osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis is most common in adults over the age of 50, but it can also occasionally occur in children. Osteoarthritis develops slowly, and will become worse over time. The disease results in the joint’s cartilage wearing away and becoming frayed and rough. This causes the joint bones to rub against each other painfully, and can also produce bone spurs that make the joint appear deformed. Obesity, genetics, and age are the primary factors that contribute to the risk of developing osteoarthritis.

Rheumatoid Arthritis

Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disease, meaning that it causes the immune system to attack itself. It typically first affects the foot and ankle, and can then spread to other joints in the body. It always affects the same joint on each side of the body at the same time. The primary symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis are swollen joints, and damage to the ligaments, tendons, bones, and cartilage that results in deformity and disability.

Post-Traumatic Arthritis

Post-traumatic arthritis is a disease commonly treated in sports medicine, due to the repetitive and stressful actions that many sports demand. Post-traumatic arthritis occurs after the foot or ankle is injured. Dislocations and fractures are the injuries that most often lead to this form of arthritis. Post-traumatic arthritis results in the degradation of the cartilage between the injured joints, and may not develop until years after the injury.

At Able Orthopedic and Sports Medicine, we provide comprehensive treatment options for arthritis in Queens . Our talented, experienced orthopedists and orthopedic surgeons specialize in sports medicine and pediatric orthopedics. For more information about our services, or to schedule an appointment, call us today at (347) 846-0037.