Arthritis Specialist

What is arthritis?

Arthritis is a chronic, degenerative disease that causes your joints to swell and become stiff. There are more than 100 types of arthritis but all affect the joints –– any area of the body where two bones meet.

At Texas Heart and Vein Multispecialty Group, the team focuses on arthritis of the foot and ankle. Early intervention and treatment can reduce uncomfortable symptoms and manage the condition.

What are the symptoms of arthritis?

Symptoms of arthritis include:

• Pain
• Stiffness
• Swelling
• Decreased range of motion
• Visible joint abnormalities

As arthritis worsens, you might also experience difficulty placing weight on the affected joint.

What types of arthritis commonly affect the ankles and feet?

There are several types of arthritis that primarily affect the feet and ankles, including:

Osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis, or wear-and-tear arthritis, causes your cartilage –– a soft, supportive substance that pads your bones –– to degenerate. Over time, that process causes your bones to rub against one another, resulting in swelling and stiffness.

Gout

Gout occurs when uric acid builds up in your bloodstream and deposits in your joints. Often, gout causes severe pain, redness, and swelling of the big toe.

Post-traumatic arthritis

Post-traumatic arthritis occurs due to a traumatic injury, like an ankle sprain or crush injury. Even after the injury heals, post-traumatic arthritis causes swelling, stiffness, and joint sensitivity.

How is arthritis diagnosed?

To diagnose arthritis, your Texas Heart and Vein Multispecialty Group provider physically examines your foot and ankle and asks about your symptoms, including their severity and if any activities like exercise make them worse.

Your provider might also have you perform a series of strength and range-of-motion exercises. If these steps don’t provide enough information, they might also order X-rays, a CT scan, or laboratory tests.

How is arthritis treated?

Treatment of arthritis usually includes a combination of healthy lifestyle changes, prescription medication, and activity modifications. If conservative treatments aren’t able to relieve your symptoms, surgical intervention may be necessary but only as a last resort.

The team at Texas Heart and Vein Multispecialty Group works with you to design a custom care plan that aligns with your age, medical history, and needs.

To receive treatment for arthritis, make an appointment at Texas Heart and Vein Multispecialty Group by calling the nearest office today or scheduling online.