Arthritic Toe Woes

Arthritic Toe Woes

Notice that your feet have been under a lot of pressure and pain lately? Do they ache constantly and make it hard to walk around? This could be a sign of a foot condition known as arthritis. Most people assume arthritis can occur only in the ankle, but actually, it can occur anywhere there is a joint. What this means is that you could also be suffering from arthritis pain in your toes. This is because the toes have joints, so they are just as susceptible to the condition.

Arthritis is a term that can be used broadly. There are multiple types of arthritis that can occur in the toe. It could simply be arthritis due to the cartilage wearing away which allows the bones to rub together, or it could be from a different type of arthritis.

So, What Is It?

Toe arthritis is the inflammation of the toe joint. More often than not, it affects the big toe. The other toes can be affected as well. Broken or sprained toes, gout, and osteoporosis can all cause toe arthritis.

Who Is at Risk?

Those who are overweight, are fifty-five and older, have suffered a traumatic past injury, are or were in sports, or who have a family history of arthritis are at risk.

Symptoms

The first symptom of toe arthritis is pain. At first, it can be general discomfort, but over time it can increase to extreme unbearable pain. Another common symptom of this condition is stiffness in the joint. The stiffer the joint, the harder it is to move. Swelling is another symptom of arthritis of the toe. This particular symptom can make it hard for you to fit into your shoes. Clicking and popping noises are the fourth symptom of arthritis. These sounds are caused by the deterioration of cartilage in the joints.

Other symptoms can also occur when you have toe arthritis. In general, if your toe starts to be painful, look different or feel different, then it is time to see your podiatrist. Arthritis isn’t the only problem your toe could be facing. Call Dr. Alan J. Discont and Dr. Krahn of Family Foot & Ankle Care, PC located in Chandler, Arizona. The number is 480-732-0033 or make an appointment online today. Arthritis can be debilitating – let us help you get back on your feet.