How Arthritis Affects the Foot and Ankle Joint
How Arthritis Affects the Foot and Ankle Joint Arthritis is a common condition that can impact various joints in the body, and the foot and ankle are no exceptions. While arthritis may affect different joints, its impact on the lower extremities can be particularly debilitating. In this blog, we’ll explore how arthritis affects the foot and ankle joint, its symptoms, and potential treatment options. Understanding Arthritis and Its Types Arthritis refers to the inflammation of the joints, which can lead to pain, swelling, and stiffness. There are two main types of arthritis that affect the foot and ankle: Osteoarthritis (OA) : Often referred to as wear-and-tear arthritis, OA occurs when the cartilage in the joints breaks down over time, causing bones to rub against each other. This results in pain and limited motion. Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) : An autoimmune disorder, RA occurs when the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks the joints, causing inflammation. This can affect t...