Arthritis
What is Arthritis?
- Arthritis is cartilage damage of one or more of your joints, which can lead to joint space narrowing, bone spur formation, and destruction of joints. Most common types of arthritis are osteoarthritis (degeneration) and rheumatoid arthritis (inflammation). The main symptoms are joint pain and stiffness, which typically worsen with age. Other symptoms may include redness, warmth, swelling, and decreased range of motion of the affected joints.
Causes
- Osteoarthritis has no specific cause. Several factors lead to the development of osteoarthritis including age, excess weight, trauma or overuse. Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disorder, which is triggered by a faulty immune system (the body’s defense system).
What a Podiatrist Can Do for You?
- Prescribing accommodative custom orthotics and/or shoes
- Prescribing appropriate anti-inflammatory medications
- Injections to affected joints
- Ordering x-rays to evaluate joints
- Surgery