How Much Do You Know About Arthritis?

There are 26 bones in each of your feet and ankles, accounting for more than one quarter of all of the bones in your body. These bones come together in more than 30 joints. Arthritis is the commonly used term to refer to over 100 degenerative joint diseases. These include the most common, Osteoarthritis, along with Rheumatoid Arthritis, Psoriatic Arthritis, and even gout. May is Arthritis Awareness Month and the doctors and staff of Hartford Podiatry Group are happy to take the opportunity to share some facts about arthritis with you:

• Most arthritis does not develop suddenly. It comes on slowly, over a long period of time.

• In the lower legs, arthritis commonly occurs at the big toe, the heel, and the ankle.

• Be alert to signs of arthritis including redness, swelling, limited range of motion, discomfort when wearing shoes, pain when standing or walking, and the development of deformities such as bunions or hammertoes.

 While arthritis is a chronic condition that cannot be cured, your podiatrist can help relieve many of the symptoms it creates. Treatment options for arthritis typically include:

• prescription and/or over-the-counter medication for pain and swelling

• physical therapy and at-home exercises to preserve and improve range of motion

• new shoes designed especially for arthritic feet

• custom orthotics prescribed and created by your doctor to provide cushioning and support

• surgery, in extreme cases where it is necessary to correct a deformity or fuse arthritic bones

If you are worried that you have developed arthritis, or if you have any other concerns about the health and wellness of your feet, ankles, or lower legs, call Hartford Podiatry Group at 860-523-8026. You can also click here to schedule a convenient appointment in our comfortable, state-of-the-art offices in Hartford and Rocky Hill. Dr. Eric Kosofsky and Dr. Robert Rutstein will examine your feet and ankles, diagnose any existing or potential problems, and work with you to create an individualized and effective plan for treatment and ongoing care.