Each foot and ankle has 33 joints, and because they bear the body’s weight daily, they are especially vulnerable to arthritis and its painful, often debilitating symptoms. If you are experiencing stiffness, swelling, or ongoing pain in your feet or ankles, arthritic foot care may provide lasting relief.
At Grand Central Podiatry in New York, NY , our experienced podiatrist has years of expertise in diagnosing and treating arthritis of the foot and ankle. Our goal is to help you stay active, mobile, and pain-free so you can enjoy a better quality of life.
Call our office at (212) 685-5100 to speak with our friendly staff, or request an appointment online at your convenience.
Why would I need arthritic foot care?
Arthritis affects millions of people, causing swelling, stiffness, and inflammation in the joints. The most common types include osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and gout. Because your feet and ankles support your entire body weight, they are especially prone to arthritis-related pain and limited mobility.
If arthritis is interfering with your ability to walk, exercise, or carry out daily activities, specialized arthritic foot care can help reduce discomfort and slow the progression of the disease.
What is arthritic foot care?
Arthritic foot care combines at-home management and professional podiatry treatments to ease pain, reduce inflammation, and maintain joint function. Treatment plans may include:
- Custom Orthotics: Custom-made orthotics provide targeted support while reducing pressure and friction on sensitive areas.
- Supportive Footwear: Flexible, cushioned shoes with proper arch support and roomy toe boxes help minimize strain. If you wear heels, choose a low heel to protect your joints.
- Ice and Heat Therapy: Alternating between ice packs, heating pads, or topical creams can increase circulation and reduce inflammation.
- Medication: Over-the-counter nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) may provide short-term relief. However, they are not a permanent solution and may not be safe for long-term use.
- Surgery: When arthritis severely damages the ankle and significantly impacts mobility, surgical options may be recommended. These include ankle fusion, ankle replacement, or minimally invasive procedures depending on the severity of joint damage.
What can a podiatrist do for arthritic feet?
Because arthritis is a complex condition, professional care is often necessary to manage pain and preserve joint function. At Grand Central Podiatry, our podiatrist may recommend procedures such as debridement surgery (arthroplasty), where damaged cartilage, bone fragments, or swollen tissue are removed to relieve painful pressure.
With expert arthritic foot care and other podiatry treatments, our team helps patients in New York, NY return to the daily activities they enjoy while improving their overall quality of life.
Can arthritis in the feet be prevented?
While there is no guaranteed way to prevent arthritis, certain lifestyle habits may lower your risk or slow its progression. Maintaining a healthy weight, wearing supportive footwear, avoiding repetitive joint strain, and staying physically active can all support long-term joint health.
When should I see a podiatrist for arthritis?
You should schedule an appointment if foot or ankle pain persists for more than a few days, if swelling or stiffness limits your mobility, or if at-home treatments no longer provide relief. Early podiatry care can help prevent arthritis from worsening and protect your joint function.
To learn more, call us today at (212) 685-5100 or contact us online.
Take the First Step Toward Relief
If arthritis is affecting your daily life, don’t wait to get help. The team at Grand Central Podiatry in New York, NY is here to provide personalized treatment that reduces pain and restores mobility.
Call us today at (212) 685-5100 or schedule your appointment online.