Arthritis

Arthritis can affect any joint in the body, including the small bony structures in your feet and ankles. If you’re experiencing pain and stiffness that limit your mobility, board-certified orthopedic surgeons Pedro E.  Cosculluela, MD, and Andrew M. Ebert, MD, can help at Austin Foot & Ankle Institute, in Austin, Lakeway and Cedar Park, Texas. They specialize in diagnosing and managing foot and ankle arthritis, ensuring you receive the highest quality of care throughout your recovery. Call your nearest location today or schedule an appointment online to learn more.

What is arthritis?

Arthritis is a chronic degenerative condition that causes joint inflammation. While it can develop in any of your joints, arthritis is particularly damaging to the feet and ankles. You need healthy joints in your feet and ankles to stand, walk, and jump. Arthritis can limit your mobility and range of motion, diminishing your quality of life.

Addressing arthritis in its early stages is essential to preserve your foot and ankle function. At Austin Foot & Ankle Institute, Dr. Cosculluela and Dr. Ebert provide comprehensive care for ankle sprains, fractures, and other lower extremity injuries.

Which types of arthritis affect the feet and ankles?

Many types of arthritis can affect the feet and ankles, including:

Osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis affects the soft, flexible cartilage that cushions and protects the ends of connecting bones. As the cartilage breaks down, friction can develop between the bones, leading to pain, stiffness, and a poor range of motion. 

Rheumatoid arthritis

Rheumatoid arthritis develops in the synovial lining inside the joints. This autoimmune disease causes the affected joints to swell, causing pain and discomfort.

Post-traumatic arthritis

Similar to osteoarthritis, post-traumatic arthritis damages the cartilage around your joints. It occurs after a severe injury, such as bone fractures and dislocations. 

What are the signs of arthritis?

Foot and ankle arthritis can cause many uncomfortable symptoms, including:

• Dull ache or sharp pain
• Swelling
• Tenderness
• Warmth around the joint
• Bone spurs (bony growths on the joint)
• Changes in the way you walk

Without treatment, arthritis can lead to chronic pain and mobility issues. Your doctor works with you to diagnose and treat your condition to manage any symptoms you experience.

What are the treatments for arthritis?

Dr. Cosculluela and Dr. Ebert offer numerous nonsurgical interventions to treat arthritis before it damages your joint. These treatments include:

• Physical therapy
• Antiinflammatory medications
• Custom-made orthotics
• Compression
• Bracing or splinting
• Activity modification
• Weight loss

If your condition is advanced, your doctor may recommend surgery to address the damaged cartilage around your joints. In the foot, arthritis is typically treated with debridement - cleaning of the joint - or fusions.

Arthritis tends to worsen without proper management. Don’t let it stop you from enjoying the activities you love. Seek comprehensive care today by scheduling a consultation with Dr. Cosculluela or Dr. Ebert. Call Austin Foot & Ankle Institute or book an appointment online to learn more.