Arthritis

There are 26 bones in the normal human foot that create 33 separate joints.  The result is ample opportunity for arthritis to develop. The word arthritis basically means “inflammation of the joint” and this is characterized by pain and often stiffness.

Symptoms

Over time the joint can deteriorate and lose motion.  Arthritis is common in the big toe joint and in the smaller toes as well as the midfoot joints on the top of the foot that usually results in painful prominent “bumps” or spurs.

Treatment

If caught early, arthritis in the foot can be treated with medication, orthotics, and shoe modifications.  In advance stages, pain can subside naturally due to decreased motion in the joint. If pain persists after the arthritis is advanced, surgical intervention may be the best option.