What Is Arthritis?
Arthritis is a condition where the joints in the foot or ankle become inflamed. This often leads to pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility. It can affect various joints in the foot or ankle and is often caused by wear and tear over time or an underlying medical condition.
How it works
Common Causes:
- Osteoarthritis: The most common type, caused by the breakdown of cartilage in the joints.
- Post-Traumatic Arthritis: Arthritis that develops after a foot or ankle injury.
- Gout: A form of arthritis caused by the buildup of uric acid crystals in the joints.
- Metabolic disease: Rheumatoid and Psoriatic Arthritis often result in painful foot & ankle issues.
Symptoms:
- Pain in the foot or ankle joints, especially during movement
- Bone spurs
- Stiffness and swelling in the affected joints
- Difficulty walking or bearing weight
- Reduced range of motion in the foot or ankle
Treatment Options:
- Conservative: Anti-inflammatory medications, steroid injections, physical therapy, and custom orthotics can help manage symptoms and correct biomechanics.
- Lifestyle Changes: Weight management and activity modifications can reduce strain on the joints.
- Surgical: In severe cases, surgery may be recommended to repair or replace damaged joints. Procedure choice is dependent on the patient, joints involved and progression of the condition.
Options may include:
- Joint Decompression
- Fusion Procedures
- Ankle Joint Replacement
If you are experiencing foot pain or stiffness from arthritis, our podiatry team can help you explore treatment options to relieve symptoms and restore mobility. Contact us today for an evaluation.
What our patients say
Dr. McDonald performed my father's surgery with exceptional skill and provided outstanding follow-up care, ensuring our comfort throughout the process.
I am currently seeing Dr. McDonald for my ankle and I am overjoyed with the care that I receive from his clinic. The staff is always friendly and accommodating. I always feel heard with any concerns that I have. Dr. McDonald explains any/all processes thoroughly.
I’ve been having some pain in my feet for the past few months, went to visit footy & ankle clinic, and receive an injection & bough some shoe insoles, hopefully it will work 😇 great service …
Excellent service. Dr. McDonald was very thorough and discussed my problems and my options! I would highly recommend this clinic.
Absolutely the best care! Dr. McDonald was the 3rd podiatrist I had seen with chronic ankle pain. Was able to do x-rays in-office and read them immediately. He was able to find the cause of my problem and treat it when Froedtert said there was nothing wrong with my foot. Came up with a treatment plan and did a steroid injection and have finally been pain free for the first time in 2 and 1/2 years. Truly the most caring, attentive, and knowledgeable!
Dr. McDonald always takes his time with me which I appreciate. He also has an excellent staff. He really listens and has a kind and gentle approach. I have seen many doctors in his specialty and he is by far my favorite! I highly recommend him!
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Start on a journey to better foot & ankle health
At Wisconsin Foot & Ankle Clinic, we specialize in advanced care for foot and ankle conditions. Trust our team of experts to provide effective, personalized treatment plans to keep you moving with ease.