Arthritis affects many people, often causing pain, stiffness, and difficulties with movement. While “arthritis” is a general term, it covers several different conditions. Knowing which type you have can help you understand what’s happening in your joints and what steps you might take for relief. Here’s a closer look at some of the common types of arthritis, especially as they impact the feet and ankles:
Osteoarthritis
Osteoarthritis (OA) is the most common type of arthritis, sometimes associated with aging or previous injuries. The joints in your feet and ankles work hard every day, carrying your weight and absorbing impact with every step. Over time, the slippery cartilage that cushions your bones may wear down. This can cause the bones to rub against each other, sometimes leading to pain, swelling, and stiffness. Here are some of the symptoms of OA:
- Reduced flexibility in the joints
- Pain and discomfort that can worsen with prolonged standing
- Swelling and inflammation around the affected joints
- Development of bone spurs
- Changes in gait or posture
- Increased stiffness
Rheumatoid Arthritis
Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a different type of condition that can impact mobility. RA is an autoimmune disorder, which means the immune system mistakenly attacks healthy tissue; in this case, it attacks the lining of your joints. This process often causes swelling, redness, and warmth, sometimes even in both feet or both ankles at the same time. RA affects people of any age and often shows up in middle adulthood, but it’s not limited to that age group. Early signs may include morning stiffness or joint tenderness that lasts an hour or more.
Gout
Gout is a type of arthritis that can cause severe pain. Many people experience sudden and severe bouts of pain, often starting in the big toe. Gout happens when too much uric acid builds up in the body, forming sharp crystals in the joints. This triggers swelling, redness, and intense discomfort that is difficult to ignore and can impact the quality of life. While gout attacks are most common in the big toe, they also affect other joints in the feet and ankles.
Psoriatic Arthritis
Psoriatic arthritis often appears in people who have psoriasis, a skin condition, though not always. This type can cause joint pain, swelling, and stiffness, sometimes accompanied by noticeable swelling in the toes or on the bottom of the foot. The symptoms can come and go, and you might also notice changes in your toenails, such as pitting or separation from the nail bed.
Book a Consultation with a Foot and Ankle Doctor
Any persistent pain, swelling, or stiffness in your feet or ankles deserves attention. Each type of arthritis brings its own challenges and potential for joint changes, but support is available. If you find it hard to walk, notice changes in your gait, or worry that your joint pain is disrupting your daily life, reach out for professional guidance. Getting professional assistance is the first step toward feeling better. Early support can help you stay mobile and comfortable as you manage arthritis at every stage of life. If you’d like help understanding your symptoms or exploring treatment options, schedule a consultation today.