How Can You Relieve Midfoot Arthritis Pain?
Midfoot arthritis is a condition affecting the central part of the foot, where a group of small bones and joints work together to provide stability and facilitate movement. Over time, factors such as wear and tear, injuries, or inflammatory conditions like rheumatoid arthritis can cause the protective cartilage in these joints to break down. As the cartilage wears away, the bones begin to rub against each other, resulting in pain, stiffness, and swelling, which can make everyday activities like standing or walking difficult.
Common Causes of Midfoot Arthritis
Midfoot arthritis typically develops when the cartilage in the joints of the midfoot deteriorates, leading to friction between the bones. Several factors contribute to this breakdown:
Post-Traumatic Arthritis: Injuries such as fractures, sprains, or dislocations can have lasting effects on the midfoot. Damage to these joints during youth or early adulthood may not cause immediate problems, but over time, it can lead to arthritis as the cartilage degenerates.
Degenerative Arthritis: As we age, the cartilage in our joints naturally breaks down, often resulting in osteoarthritis. Repetitive stress from high-impact activities or overuse can speed up this process, increasing the risk of arthritis in the midfoot.
Inflammatory Conditions: Diseases like rheumatoid arthritis and gout can also affect the midfoot. Rheumatoid arthritis causes the immune system to attack the joints, resulting in pain, swelling, and damage. Gout, caused by a buildup of uric acid, can lead to sudden, intense flare-ups, which may severely inflame the midfoot joints.
Key Symptoms
The symptoms of midfoot arthritis can vary but typically include:
Pain: Chronic pain, especially during weight-bearing activities such as walking or standing, is a key symptom. This pain may be sharp or dull, and it often worsens with use.
Stiffness: The affected joints may become stiff, limiting the foot's range of motion. This stiffness can make it difficult to bend or flex the foot, impacting everyday movements.
Swelling: Inflammation within the joints may lead to swelling, which can be accompanied by redness and warmth, particularly during flare-ups caused by conditions like rheumatoid arthritis.
Difficulty Walking: As the pain and stiffness increase, walking may become challenging. People with midfoot arthritis may limp, avoid putting weight on the affected foot, or limit their activities to minimize discomfort.
“So there's different ways to help alleviate that arthritis in the mid foot. A lot of times it's a good shoes, good orthotics, sometimes anti inflammatories, Plan B would be a cortisone injection.” - Dr. McCarty
How Can You Relieve Midfoot Arthritis Pain?
Relieving midfoot arthritis pain involves a combination of strategies aimed at reducing inflammation, improving mobility, and enhancing overall foot function. While the specific approach may vary depending on the severity of the condition, there are several effective treatment options to consider:
Non-Surgical Treatments
For many individuals, conservative treatments offer significant relief from midfoot arthritis pain without the need for surgery. These include:
Footwear Modifications: Shoes with cushioning, a stiff sole, arch support, and a wide toe box help reduce pressure on the midfoot and alleviate pain.
Orthotics: Custom or over-the-counter inserts provide additional support and help distribute weight more evenly, improving function during weight-bearing activities.
Anti-inflammatory Medications: NSAIDs like ibuprofen reduce inflammation and alleviate pain, often as the first line of treatment.
Cortisone Injections: Cortisone injections provide temporary relief by reducing inflammation and can offer weeks or months of pain relief.
Physical Therapy: Targeted exercises can strengthen the foot’s muscles, improve range of motion, and help with gait training to reduce stress on the affected joints.
Surgical Options
If conservative treatments don't provide enough relief or if arthritis is severely impacting quality of life, surgery may be considered. Surgical options are generally reserved for advanced cases and may include procedures such as joint fusion, joint replacement, or osteotomy to relieve pain and improve function.
If you're experiencing pain or discomfort in your midfoot, it’s important to seek professional advice as soon as possible. Early intervention can help you manage symptoms and prevent further damage.
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At Ortho San Antonio, our orthopedic doctors' number one priority is and always has been a patient's complete and total recovery. When it comes to podiatric foot & ankle needs, Ortho San Antonio is always a step above the rest.
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