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What Is Arthritis
- It is a term used to describe over 200 rheumatic diseases and refers to inflammation and swelling of the joint. However, the most common form of arthritis is osteoarthritis (we will be focussing on this condition below) which refers to the breakdown of joint cartilage over time due to wear and tear.
- Prevalance of arthritis increases with age.
Causes
- Genetics / Heredity
- Injuries (especially untreated injuries)
- Biomechanical abnormalities
- Obesity
- Aging
Symptoms
- Dull aching pain
- Joint stiffness / tenderness
- Decreased joint range of motion
- Palpable bone spurs
- Grating sensation
When To Visit A Foot Specialist
- Recurring pain, swelling of one or more joints, redness or heat in a joint, limited joint range of motion, and joint stiffness (especially in the morning) are all signs of some form of arthritis that can affect structure and function of your feet and should seek treatment.
What Can I Expect During The Visit
- Physical examination of the lower limbs.
- Patient education
- Physical therapy (Laser / Ultrasound treatment)
- Prescription of topical or oral medications
- Implementing exercise programs
- Steroid injections
- Orthotics
- Surgical intervention
Prevention
- Correct any fault foot biomechanics that lead to abnormal joint movements through orthotics or other forms of correction.
- Routine exercise regimen
- It is a term used to describe over 200 rheumatic diseases and refers to inflammation and swelling of the joint. However, the most common form of arthritis is osteoarthritis (we will be focussing on this condition below) which refers to the breakdown of joint cartilage over time due to wear and tear.
- Prevalance of arthritis increases with age.
Causes
- Genetics / Heredity
- Injuries (especially untreated injuries)
- Biomechanical abnormalities
- Obesity
- Aging
Symptoms
- Dull aching pain
- Joint stiffness / tenderness
- Decreased joint range of motion
- Palpable bone spurs
- Grating sensation
When To Visit A Foot Specialist
- Recurring pain, swelling of one or more joints, redness or heat in a joint, limited joint range of motion, and joint stiffness (especially in the morning) are all signs of some form of arthritis that can affect structure and function of your feet and should seek treatment.
What Can I Expect During The Visit
- Physical examination of the lower limbs.
- Patient education
- Physical therapy (Laser / Ultrasound treatment)
- Prescription of topical or oral medications
- Implementing exercise programs
- Steroid injections
- Orthotics
- Surgical intervention
Prevention
- Correct any fault foot biomechanics that lead to abnormal joint movements through orthotics or other forms of correction.
- Routine exercise regimen