Arthritis

Effects of Arthritis

Arthritis in the feet can have effects on other parts of the body aside from the immediately affected joints. This is because your ligaments, tendons and muscles are forced to work harder to maintain stability. This overuse can cause injuries to those ligaments, tendons and muscles, including ankle sprains, torn ligaments and a greater likelihood of falls. Another significant concern for people over 75 suffering from is chronic pain, which has huge effects on your overall health as severe pain not only limits movement but also disturbs sleep and can lead to problems with overall wellbeing and depression.

Osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis is common in older people, as it is a direct result of wear and tear over time, particularly in the feet and knees as they are weight bearing joints that have endured a huge amount of pressure over prolonged period. Osteoarthritis is a general breaking down of the joint and usually causes pain and discomfort around the joint. You may also find that your range of movement is less than what it used to be, and your ability to walk could become affected. A common contributor to Osteoarthritis is gout. Gout affects not only older generations, but is also prevalent in younger years. Gout concentrates on the first toe or ankle joints and creates an obstruction of the cartilage. 

Rheumatoid Arthritis

Rheumatoid arthritis is an auto immune condition that causes the body to work against itself, breaking down joints and resulting in pain, swelling, stiffness and deformity around the joint. Rheumatoid arthritis usually presents itself earlier in life, but gets progressively worse over time, making the disease a serious problem for older patients. Again a range of movement can be severely affected, as can your ability to walk, as toes can become deformed and hammered, making walking extremely uncomfortable.

Treatment

Treatments are available to alleviate and reduce the symptoms of arthritis. Cesar will carefully assess the severity of the condition and can recommend footwear, either off the shelf or custom made. To give problem joints more room, therefore reducing the risks of other injuries such as blisters, corns and calluses that can be caused by shoes that rub on swollen areas. Orthotics can also be specially made to provide your feet with extra support and to give you more stability, making it easier to get around. There are also exercises you can do to help keep the joint moving, which will help relieve the stiffness and pain you may be experiencing. These treatments combined can greatly improve your quality of life and general comfort and mobility

Information supplied by Podiatry NSW/ACT