What is Arthritis?
Arthritis is a general term for inflammation of the joints, many of which cause foot problems and pain throughout the lower body. Generic symptoms of arthritis include inflammation and swelling anywhere the body has soft tissue that includes the toes, ankles, and hips. This causes pain and stiffness which can result in limited activity and mobility as the joints become unable to manage weight to pressure to the affected area. Sometimes it is the case that the cartilage has worn away from the bone completely, causing them to rub uncomfortably. Arthritis treatment can help prevent both the pain and the worsening effects of the condition.
Here at FootActive, we can help relieve arthritis foot pain with our specially designed orthotic insoles, helping to support the joints and provide comfort when moving. The signs of arthritis in foot movement can be spotted early and addressed with the right exercises and use of insoles, so browse our full range here:
Types of Arthritis Foot Pain
Although arthritis is often considered a degenerative disease, it is often reported and found in young people also. This is called Juvenile arthritis which is found in those under 16 and can get progressively worse. However, one of the most common types of arthritis in feet is called Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA).
This is a chronic disorder that affects the immune system and most commonly affects those who are aged between 40 – 50. The condition wears away at the joint, starting from the outside and moving in. This affects the joint’s shape if proper foot arthritis treatment is not utilised.
The second most common kind of arthritis in the foot is Osteoarthritis. This is the most common kind of arthritis in the UK, wearing away at the cartilage lining, which results in overexerted tendons and ligaments.
As arthritis is a progressive condition, proper arthritis in foot treatment must be employed over time. The severity of the case will impact the treatment options available, but as there is currently no cure, all foot arthritis treatments are focused on preventative measures and limiting any pain.
The second most common kind of arthritis to affect the feet is Osteoarthritis. This is the most common kind of arthritis in the UK, wearing away at the cartilage lining, which results in over exerted tendons and ligaments.
As arthritis is a progressive condition, it is important that proper arthritis treatment is employed over time. The severity of the case will impact the treatment options available, but as there is no cure, all arthritis treatments are focused on preventative measures and limiting pain.
Can Arthritis Create Other Problems
Other common foot problems can occur as a result of kinds of arthritis in the feet. For example, nodules or hard lumps can appear on the pad of the heel, over the Achilles tendon and wherever the foot has prominent bones. Orthopaedic insoles designed for arthritis treatment can also help these knock-on effects, as they will comfort and can help to protect against rubbing.
Lack of foot care and arthritis treatment can also cause callous and corns to appear on the feet. It is vital that the removal of all callous and corns is done properly, as improper removal can remove healthy skin that is protecting the foot.
Signs of Arthritis in the Foot – Can it Create Other Problems?
Other common foot problems can occur because of types of arthritis in the feet. For example, nodules or hard lumps can appear on the pad of the heel, over the Achilles tendon and wherever the foot has prominent bones. Insoles that are designed for foot arthritis treatment will help these knock-on effects, as they will provide comfort and can help to protect against rubbing.
Lack of foot care and arthritis treatment can also cause calluses and corns to appear on the feet. The removal of all calluses and corns must be done properly, as improper removal can remove healthy skin that is protecting the foot. Some of the most common arthritis foot pain symptoms you may experience include:
- Pain when moving (walking, running)
- Difficulty putting weight on the foot
- Stiffness of the ankle joint or toes
- Tenderness on the foot
- Pain or swelling after periods of rest (sleeping, sitting)
Natural Treatments for Arthritis
Natural or holistic arthritis in foot treatment is often the best way to prevent pain from progressing. As the condition worsens, those who experience arthritis and foot pain may become eligible candidates for alternative treatments. Before that point, natural treatments are the best way to combat pain and support the joints:
- Reducing Exercise – We would not encourage lowering the level of activity unless it is becoming a threat to other areas of health for your body. During a flare-up, the best and most advised arthritis foot pain treatment is to avoid strenuous activity. Any undue or unnecessary pressure on the inflamed joints can worsen their condition.
- Appropriate Orthotics – Orthotic inserts and supportive footwear have been proven to contribute to the slowing of arthritis development and joint changes. Our full range of orthotics are designed to support and help to realign the foot even as arthritis affects the shapes of the joints and their natural shape alters.
FootActive Sensi insoles are a full length, soft orthotic which has been developed for diabetics, arthritis sufferers, the elderly and those with sensitive feet. They feature an arch support and a cushioning Plastazote top layer to minimise pressure and friction.
For more information about products that help to manage arthritis in foot pain or can be used for arthritis treatment, get in touch with the team here at FootActive.
Arthritis in Foot FAQs
What does arthritis foot pain feel like?
Arthritis in foot pain can feel dull, aching or throbbing. It may also be accompanied by a burning sensation, and heat in that area.
What causes arthritis in the foot?
The causes of arthritis differ depending on the type of arthritis you have.
Osteoarthritis is usually caused by wear and tear to the cartilage in your joints. Certain factors can increase your risk of developing this condition, such as your age, weight, gender, family history and past injuries. This includes post-traumatic arthritis after an injury or psoriatic arthritis that can affect your ankles or toes. You can learn more about rheumatoid arthritis here, which is one of the most common causes.
What are the symptoms of arthritis in the foot?
Arthritis in the feet can cause pain, stiffness, swelling, and may even limit your ability to walk. It can also make your feet feel hot.
Arthritis can cause debilitating pain in your feet, but there are measures you can take to alleviate these symptoms, such as providing your feet with the support they deserve. High-quality insoles like ours can help relieve symptoms of arthritis foot pain.
Does walking help relieve arthritis and foot pain?
Though it may seem nonsensical when you are experiencing pain from arthritis in the foot, walking is one of the best ways to relieve it. According to studies, people with arthritis who exercise regularly experience less pain, more energy, improved sleep, and a better quality of life. The signs of arthritis in the foot, when managed, shouldn’t be a barrier to an active lifestyle.
What are the best shoes for arthritic feet?
There are two key things your shoes should be providing when you have arthritis in your foot - comfort and support. You should avoid shoes that pinch, or leave you feeling unbalanced. If your favourite pair of shoes aren’t the most supportive, you can use a pair of orthotic insoles to provide the support you need to alleviate arthritis foot pain.
What can help relieve pain from arthritis in the foot?
Ice, anti-inflammatories and for some, heat, can help relieve the common signs of arthritis in the foot. It may take some trial and error to figure out which method works best for you.
Taking up a regular regime of light exercise can also help alleviate arthritis and foot pain. However, it’s crucial that while exercising, you provide your body with the support it needs. Our insoles provide comfortable arch support and extra cushioning where you need it most, to ensure that you can move a little easier.