Arthritis of the Foot & Ankle Treatment in New York, NY
With 33 joints in each foot, there’s a lot of room for arthritis to take hold. Progressive Footcare offers treatment to manage pain and preserve mobility, whatever stage your arthritis is at.
Request an AppointmentUnderstanding Arthritis in the Foot and Ankle
Arthritis is inflammation of a joint, and the foot and ankle are especially prone to it given how many joints they contain and how much stress they bear with every step. The most common types affecting the feet are osteoarthritis (wear-and-tear arthritis) and rheumatoid arthritis (an autoimmune condition), though other forms can affect the feet as well.
Symptoms of Foot & Ankle Arthritis
- Pain, stiffness, and swelling in one or more joints
- Reduced range of motion, especially noticeable in the morning
- Joint tenderness and warmth
- Difficulty walking or bearing weight comfortably
- Visible joint changes or deformity in more advanced cases
How Arthritis Can Affect Foot Structure Over Time
Left unmanaged, arthritis can contribute to or worsen other foot deformities, including severe bunions and hammertoes, as joint damage changes the way weight is distributed across the foot.
Our Arthritis Treatments
- Anti-inflammatory medication to manage pain and swelling
- Custom orthotics to reduce stress on affected joints and improve alignment
- Physical therapy to maintain joint mobility and surrounding muscle strength
- Corticosteroid injections for more persistent joint inflammation
- Bracing or supportive footwear recommendations to improve stability
- Surgical options, including joint fusion or replacement, for severe cases that don’t respond to conservative care
Why Choose Progressive Footcare?
- Experience managing both osteoarthritis and inflammatory forms of arthritis in the foot and ankle
- On-site imaging to assess joint damage and track changes over time
- A full range of treatment options, from conservative care to surgery
- Coordination with your rheumatologist or primary doctor when needed
Arthritis pain tends to progress gradually, which makes it easy to adapt around rather than treat. Explore our other conditions treated, or contact us today at (212) 244-7670 if joint pain is starting to limit what you can do.
Foot & Ankle Arthritis FAQs
What’s the difference between osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis in the feet?
Osteoarthritis results from wear and tear on the joint cartilage over time, while rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune condition that causes the body to attack its own joint tissue, often affecting multiple joints symmetrically.
Can arthritis in the foot be managed without surgery?
Yes, many patients manage symptoms well with medication, orthotics, physical therapy, and supportive footwear. Surgery is typically considered only when conservative treatment isn’t enough.
Does arthritis in the foot get worse over time?
It can, particularly without treatment, since ongoing joint stress and inflammation can accelerate damage. Early management can help slow progression.
Can arthritis cause other foot deformities?
Yes, arthritis can contribute to or worsen conditions like bunions and hammertoes as joint damage changes how weight is distributed across the foot.
What can I do at home to manage arthritis pain?
Supportive footwear, activity modification, and gentle range-of-motion exercises can help, though persistent or worsening pain should be evaluated professionally.
When is surgery considered for foot arthritis?
Surgery, such as joint fusion or replacement, is generally considered when pain and joint damage significantly limit daily activity despite conservative treatment.