Friday, November 24, 2017

Arthritis of the Feet


                     
                    
Arthritis of the feet is such a common condition, it is often overlooked or just ignored.  About 80% of people over 40 years of age have arthritic changes in the feet.  For serious inflammatory arthritic conditions of the feet, such as Rheumatoid Arthritis, medications are needed to keep the disease under control.
                    
The vast majority suffer from degenerative or osteoarthritis.  This condition can range from non-symptomatic to disabling.  Most problems due to osteoarthritis involve stiffness or soreness of the joints, lack of motion, formation of bone spurs, hammertoes and bunions.
                    
For most, wearing well cushioned, lace-up supportive footwear can be enough to keep the feet comfortable.  If that is not adequate, stretching exercises, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, steroid injections, physical therapy, and topical analgesic creams can all help.  For severe instances of osteoarthritis, such as rigid joints, painful bunions and hammertoes, surgical correction may be indicated.
                    
Many of my patients who suffer from painful foot arthritis benefit from arch supports or orthotics.  These devices relieve the pain by supporting the feet in their proper position and alleviating stress and strain to the joints.  Orthotics may provide long term relief for this chronic problem.
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f you suffer from foot pain, call us today.  Relief may be closer than you think.

Evan Kelner DPM, with offices in Ocean Township and Toms River.  We can be reached at (732) 988-0070 or (732) 286-9200

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