If you often feel discomfort or pressure in your feet and ankles, it could be explained by a condition called arthritis. Approximately 40 million Americans have arthritic conditions including rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis according to the American Podiatric Medical Association. A portion of these patients have pain specifically in the feet that requires help from a podiatrist. Treat foot and ankle arthritis early with the assistance of a foot doctor Dr. Sara Bouraee, Dr. Jon Houseworth, Dr. Sun Byun, Dr. Daria Piotrowksi, and Dr. Shruti Vyas at Hampton Roads Foot & Ankle Specialists in Williamsburg and Hampton, VA.

What Causes Foot and Ankle Arthritis?

People who have been diagnosed with some form of arthritis are more likely to develop foot and ankle arthritis. It is a problem with weakened or inflamed joints that cause pain and limited mobility. Foot and ankle arthritis could be caused by:

• Overuse of or continued strain on the feet.
• Wearing shoes that fit poorly.
• Genetic factors.
• Environmental factors.
• Infections that trigger an immune system response, affecting the joints.
• Poor diet or a vitamin deficiency.

Managing Arthritis Pain in the Feet and Ankles

Common joints of the feet that can be affected by arthritis include the toe joints and the joint that connects the foot to the leg via the ankle. Here are some tips for managing arthritis pain in the feet:

• Use anti-inflammatory medications to manage pain and reduce inflammation.
• Ask your Williamsburg, VA, podiatrist about joint supplements and dietary tips. For instance, some patients have issues with dairy that cause their arthritic flare-ups.
• Go to your foot doctor for corticosteroid injections when the pain becomes difficult to bear.
• Sit down and rest when it is break time at work and relax your feet.

Ways To Improve Mobility

You can improve the mobility of your feet and ankles with the help of a podiatrist with the following therapies:

• Practice exercises for strengthening and improving flexibility in the feet. You can do these stretches while lying down, standing, or sitting.
• Commit to daily movement, such as a brisk walk or jog, and avoid a sedentary lifestyle.
• Use heat and ice therapy daily to ease inflammation, improve circulation, and soothe the joints.

Get Better Mobility With Help From a Podiatrist

You may discover that simple solutions are available for foot and ankle discomfort in the joints that can help you achieve a healthier, more normal lifestyle. Call (757) 220-3311 to reach the Williamsburg, VA, office and (757) 224-7605 for Hampton, VA today to schedule a foot arthritis consultation with a podiatrist at Hampton Roads Foot & Ankle Specialists in Williamsburg and Hampton, VA.