Osteoarthritis: Causes, Symptoms & Arthritis
Osteoarthritis is one of the most common forms of arthritis, affecting millions of people around the world. This degenerative joint disease can lead to pain, stiffness, and even loss of mobility, particularly in the weight-bearing joints like the knees, hips, and feet.
At The Foot Spot, we understand the impact that osteoarthritis can have on daily life, especially for those who spend long hours on their feet or struggle with mobility. In this blog post, we will explore the causes, symptoms, and treatment options for osteoarthritis, specifically as it relates to foot health, and how we can help you find relief with our range of services and products.
What is Osteoarthritis?
Osteoarthritis (OA) is a condition where the cartilage that cushions the joints breaks down over time. This leads to pain, swelling, and reduced flexibility. As the cartilage wears away, bones may begin to rub together, causing more discomfort and stiffness. OA can occur in any joint, but it is especially common in the knees, hips, hands, and feet.
In the feet, osteoarthritis often affects the big toe joint (hallux rigidus), the midfoot, and the ankle, leading to difficulty with walking and standing for extended periods. As foot health plays a crucial role in overall mobility, understanding osteoarthritis and its effects on the feet can help people manage symptoms and improve quality of life.
Causes of Osteoarthritis
The primary cause of osteoarthritis is the wear and tear of the cartilage in the joints. However, several factors can contribute to the development of this condition, including:
-
Age: The risk of developing OA increases with age, as the cartilage naturally wears down over time.
-
Joint Injury: Previous injuries, such as fractures or sprains, can lead to joint instability and increase the risk of osteoarthritis.
-
Genetics: Family history plays a role, as some people may inherit a genetic predisposition to developing OA.
-
Obesity: Excess weight puts added stress on weight-bearing joints like the knees and feet, which can accelerate cartilage breakdown.
-
Overuse or Repetitive Stress: People who are on their feet a lot or engage in repetitive motion, such as athletes or people with physically demanding jobs, are more susceptible to OA.
-
Gender: Women are more likely to develop osteoarthritis than men, especially after menopause.
Symptoms of Osteoarthritis
The symptoms of osteoarthritis can vary depending on the severity of the condition, but common signs include:
-
Pain: Joint pain, especially after movement or at the end of the day, is the most common symptom. In the feet, this can make walking or standing uncomfortable.
-
Stiffness: People with OA often experience stiffness in the affected joint, particularly in the morning or after periods of inactivity.
-
Swelling: Inflammation around the joint can cause swelling, making the area appear puffy or tender.
-
Reduced Range of Motion: As cartilage deteriorates, the joint may lose its ability to move as freely, leading to difficulty in walking or bending the toes.
-
Grating Sensation: A common symptom in advanced osteoarthritis is the feeling of bones rubbing against each other, which can cause a grating or crunching sensation in the joint.
Osteoarthritis and Foot Health
When osteoarthritis affects the feet, it can significantly impact daily activities, from walking and standing to exercising. Common areas in the feet where osteoarthritis may occur include:
-
Big Toe Joint (Hallux Rigidus): OA in the big toe joint can limit toe movement, making it difficult to walk, run, or wear certain shoes. This is particularly problematic because the big toe plays a key role in pushing off the ground while walking.
-
Midfoot: OA in the midfoot can cause pain and instability, affecting your balance and ability to walk without discomfort.
-
Ankle: OA in the ankle joint can lead to difficulty with mobility, especially when walking on uneven surfaces.
How We Can Help at The Foot Spot
At The Foot Spot, we specialize in foot solutions that provide comfort and relief for those suffering from osteoarthritis and other foot-related conditions. We offer a variety of services that can help reduce the pain and improve mobility caused by osteoarthritis, including:
-
Free Foot & Gait Assessments: Our Certified Pedorthists will perform a thorough foot and gait assessment to identify any biomechanical issues that may be contributing to your foot pain. With this knowledge, we can recommend customized solutions to address your specific needs.
-
Custom Insoles and Orthotics: Customized orthotics can help redistribute pressure and support the joints, reducing pain and improving alignment. Whether you need insoles for added cushion or orthotics to stabilize the foot, we offer personalized products that can enhance comfort and mobility.
-
Orthopedic Footwear: Proper footwear is essential for managing osteoarthritis in the feet. We carry top brands of orthopedic shoes that are designed to provide the support and cushioning you need. Some of our top brands include:
-
Brooks: Known for their high-performance shoes that offer excellent support and cushioning for people on the go.
-
New Balance: A favorite for those seeking durability and superior arch support, especially for people dealing with joint pain.
-
HOKA: Renowned for their ultra-cushioned soles and maximum comfort, HOKA shoes are perfect for those looking for relief from the pressure of OA while staying active.
-
On Running (On Clouds): On Running’s signature CloudTec technology provides superior cushioning and a smooth, responsive ride, making them a great choice for those dealing with osteoarthritis and joint pain.
-
-
Education and Advice: Our team is here to help educate you about osteoarthritis and provide tips for managing symptoms, such as stretching exercises, weight management, and footwear recommendations.
Conclusion
Osteoarthritis can be a painful and debilitating condition, but with the right care and treatment, you can manage your symptoms and improve your quality of life. If you're experiencing foot pain due to osteoarthritis or other related conditions, The Foot Spot is here to help. With our personalized foot and gait assessments, custom orthotics, and wide selection of orthopedic footwear, we can help you walk more comfortably and confidently. Visit us today at one of our Kansas City locations to start your journey toward better foot health.
Take the first step towards relief—contact The Foot Spot to schedule your free foot assessment today!