Arthritis

Great Lakes Foot and Ankle Institute

Podiatrists & Foot Surgeons located in Clinton Township, Chesterfield, Fort Gratiot, East China Township, Shelby Township, Rochester & Macomb, MI

While arthritis has no cure, you can still get effective relief from pain and delay the progression of the condition. At Great Lakes Foot and Ankle Institute, you can meet with a top-rated podiatrist who designs a personalized arthritis treatment plan, based on your specific type of arthritis. Book your arthritis evaluation by using the online schedule or call your nearest clinic today.

Arthritis Q & A

Why do I have arthritis?

Arthritis is a term used to describe over 100 types of inflammatory conditions that affect your joints. When you have arthritis, cartilage and supportive tissues that protect your joints start to break down. Without this cushioning tissue, your bones begin to rub against one another.

Depending on which type of arthritis you’re diagnosed with, the chronic condition can be caused by:

  • Wear-and-tear (osteoarthritis)
  • Autoimmune disease (rheumatoid arthritis)
  • Poor diet or obesity (gouty arthritis)
  • Prior injury (post-traumatic arthritis)

The longer you go without proper arthritis treatment, the more debilitating the condition can become. It’s important to understand the signs and symptoms of arthritis and start treatment early before arthritis lowers your quality of life.

What are the symptoms of arthritis?

As you would suspect, arthritis is known for causing joint pain. But depending on which type of arthritis you have and how far the condition has progressed, you may also experience:

  • Limited range of motion
  • Swelling or tenderness
  • Warmth or redness over the joint
  • Pain that worsens with activity

Arthritis that develops in your feet and ankles can even make it difficult for you to walk or stand comfortably. Whether your arthritis symptoms are just an occasional nuisance or seem to affect you daily, the expert podiatrists at Great Lakes Foot and Ankle Institute can treat you.

How is arthritis treated?

Your arthritis treatment plan is designed to relieve discomfort and restore your full quality of life. Depending on which type of arthritis you have and the severity of your symptoms, your arthritis treatment plan may include:

  • Physical therapy
  • Braces or splints
  • Supportive orthotic inserts
  • Assistive devices, such as a cane
  • Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)

If you have severe arthritis, or if conservative therapies aren’t enough to relieve joint discomfort, it might be time to consider arthritis surgery. The skilled foot and ankle surgeons at Great Lakes Foot and Ankle Institute use minimally invasive arthroscopic measures to remove damaged tissue, repair damaged joints, or fuse your bones together. Your arthritis surgery is tailored to you.

Learn more about effective arthritis treatments offered at Great Lakes Foot and Ankle Institute by scheduling an exam. Book online or over the phone with your most convenient office.

 

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