Of the dozens of types of arthritis that exist, gout, osteoarthritis, and rheumatoid arthritis are the kinds that most commonly affect your feet and ankles. If you suffer from joint pain and stiffness, book an evaluation with Aaron Chokan, DPM, FACFAS, FACCWS, at Ohio Foot and Ankle Center in Canton, Uniontown, Stow and Rittman, to see how the leading podiatry team can help you. Click on the online booking tool or call any office to speak with a team member directly.
Arthritis is a complex condition that affects your joints. To protect your joints and allow for smooth motions, you have cartilage that provides cushioning and bone protection.
But when you have arthritis, cartilage breaks down, inflammation increases, and bones start rubbing against one another, among other issues.
In most cases, old age and wear-and-tear lead to arthritis. This is known as osteoarthritis, a degenerative condition that worsens over time. However, you can also develop arthritis for any of the following reasons:
It’s even possible to develop arthritis because of a serious infection, a condition known as septic arthritis. While arthritis can affect anyone, your risk is higher if you have a close blood relative who struggles with arthritis.
Arthritis can be incapacitating and limit your range of motion, so you have a hard time continuing with normal daily activities. The compassionate providers at Ohio Foot and Ankle Center encourage you to schedule an arthritis examination if you have any of the following symptoms:
You should also come in to Ohio Foot and Ankle Center for an arthritis evaluation if you find that walking and standing are difficult because of your discomfort.
Your dedicated podiatrist at Ohio Foot and Ankle Center spends time examining you, checking your range of motion, and looking at imaging tests to determine the severity of your arthritis. Laboratory tests might be necessary, too.
Once your podiatrist diagnoses you, they counsel you about all of your arthritis treatment options, which may include:
If serious arthritic deterioration is present, surgery may be necessary. Your foot and ankle surgeon can remove and repair damaged cartilage and bone with minimally invasive tools.
But if you have severe ankle arthritic deterioration, you might need a total ankle replacement. Ohio Foot and Ankle Center podiatrists specialize in Stryker STAR™ and Wright Medical Group INBONE™ ankle replacements, among others, so you can expect to receive the most up-to-date surgical treatment available.
Before suffering from arthritic discomfort another day, get started on treatment at Ohio Foot and Ankle Center. Book your arthritis evaluation online or by phone with the office nearest you.