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This Arthritis Awareness Month Think of Your Feet

foot pain arthritis

27 Apr This Arthritis Awareness Month Think of Your Feet

May is National Arthritis Awareness Month. More than 40 million Americans have been diagnosed with arthritis. Arthritis itself is a blanket term that refers to more than 100 different rheumatic conditions and diseases. It affects the entire body, including the feet and ankles.

Let’s look at some warning signs that arthritis may be affecting your feet or ankles.

WARNING SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS OF ARTHRITIS

Arthritis in your foot or ankle can include the following symptoms:

  • Joint pain
  • Joint swelling
  • Joint stiffness
  • Limited range of motion


CAUSES OF ARTHRITIS

It’s important to realize arthritis is not caused merely by age. Although that can be one factor, there are many types of arthritis with numerous causes. Even children can have arthritis. Nearly 300,000 American children under 18 are diagnosed with juvenile arthritis.

What are some causes other than age for arthritis? There are various risk factors for developing arthritis. Some of the most common are:

  • Obesity
  • Injuries
  • Excess strain on the joints
  • Genetics
  • Infections


WHAT CAN BE DONE?

Pain from arthritis in your feet or ankles can cause a decrease in mobility and a decrease in the quality of life. It’s important to know there is help. With experienced foot specialists, you don’t need to live with the pain. Podiatrists can examine your feet and determine the proper treatment.

Treatment options for arthritis-related foot and ankle issues include:

  • Medications
  • Surgery
  • Customized orthotic shoe inserts

Don’t let arthritis slow you down. Help is just a phone call away.

Contact us today to make an appointment with Alta Ridge Foot Specialists at one of our three offices at 105 Chestnut Street, Mars Hill, or 440 Alta Pass Highway, Spruce Pine, or 2211 NC Hwy 105, Boone, NC. Our dedicated doctors provide state-of-the-art care to our patients. Dr. W. Aaron Broyles, Dr. Robert L. Van Brederode, and Dr. Thomas Verla and their staff serve patients in Madison, Mitchell, and Watauga County. We look forward to hearing from you!