Foot and ankle arthritis

There are thirty-three joints in each foot, and arthritis in any of them changes how you walk. The aim is to keep you moving comfortably, using offloading and injection therapy well before fusion or replacement is discussed.

What's Involved

On-site X-ray — Weight-bearing images to identify which joints are affected and how badly.
Offloading — Custom orthotics and footwear changes that take load off the painful joint.
Injection therapy — Ultrasound-guided cortisone into the specific joint causing the pain.

When to Come In

Morning stiffness — Joints that need time to loosen before you can walk normally.
Pain that worsens through the day — Aching that builds with activity and eases with rest.
Reduced motion — A joint that no longer bends as far as its opposite.

This content is for general information only and isn't medical advice. Talk with a qualified provider about your own situation. If you have a medical emergency, call 911.