CDC Says Arthritis is Now More Common
Arthritis, which affects over 53 million Americans, can hurt your feet. And, the CDC says that’s a big increase. Because, back in 2010, arthritis only hurt 50 million people. So, if that rate continues, many new people will soon be dealing with this painful disease.
Now, arthritis is most common in older individuals. And that’s who because he cartilage between their joints can deteriorate as you age. But some younger men and women also face this disease–especially psoriatic arthitis. And your feet are a major arthritis target. (The most common problem areas are your big toe, mid-foot, and heel.)
Having arthritis in the feet can make your life a lot more difficult. But here at Louetta Foot and Ankle Specialists we’re ready to help. That was the case for our patient Louise B., who recently shared: ” Dr. Bachman was able to make me pain free in six weeks without surgery. I have callouses due to arthritis. He taught me what to do to keep them under control. I highly recommend Dr. Bachman.” And we can offer other tips to manage arthritis, if you just keep reading!
Caring for the Arthritic Foot
Humans will walk approximately 75,000 miles in the average lifetime. This can put a great deal of stress on the 26 bones and 30 joints that we have in our feet. As we get older, our feet lose flexibility and elasticity. Our shock absorbers weaken. And that may inflame and deform your joints. Meaning medical intervention will be crucial.
It is best to take care of your feet by wearing proper shoes. if you wear the wrong shoes, you may develop a hammertoe, neuromas, or bunions. Wearing shoes that have a lower heel and extra room can help your feet be comfortable. In cases of rheumatoid arthritis, the arch in your foot can be problematic. Buying shoes that contour to your feet with good arch support can help immensely.
Relieving Arthritis Pain
Stretching your Achilles tendon can prevent further pain and injury and increase mobility
Plus, we can relieve pain with anti-inflammatory drugs, heat, and topical medications with Capsaicin.
Finally, massaging your feet can offer temporary pain relief.
Always visit your doctor to find the right treatment for your needs and symptoms. Conditions vary, and our team of Spring and Tomball TX podiatrists can help find the right treatment for you.
Psoriatic Arthritis (PsA) and Your feet
PsA is an autoimmune disease that affects your joints and skin. When it impacts your feet, you may notice
- stiff or swollen joints, and swollen “sausage” toes
- Achilles tendon and/or heel pain
- crumbling or dented toenails
While arthritis pain gets worse over time, PsA comes in flares. Still, it’s important to manage these flares to avoid lasting joint damage.
Preventing Psoriatic Arthritis Damage
Your doctor may prescribe medication to prevent and treat PsA. You may also need NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) to manage occasional pain.
Picking supportive shoes can also help, especially if you add orthotics to prevent rubbing or uneven pressure.
Regular exercise can also keep your joint lubricated. Try less-stressful workouts like swimming or working on the elliptical machine. And yoga is always a great way to relieve pressure and improve mobility and flexibility.
Even better? Exercise also helps you maintain a healthy weight. And that’s important, because extra pounds put more pressure on your stressed-out feet.
Pampering Sore Arthritic Feet
When arthritis pain of any kind shows up, a soothing soak can offer pain relief. Try this at-home method, or come into Dr. Michelle’s medi-spa for some extra pampering.
Fill a bucket or bath with warm water and Epsom salts, and soak for about 10 minutes. (Longer will dry out your skin and could make PsA symptoms worse.)
And don’t forget proper nail care with PsA. Because this disease can make your nails crumbly, keeping them short and smooth can prevent breaking. And, again, we’re happy to help with safe nail trims in the office.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office. We’re here and ready to help you fight the pain of arthritis!