What Can You Do to Relieve Foot Arthritis Pain?

When it comes to arthritis, an earlier diagnosis can result in better pain management and disease control. But, regardless of when you begin treatment, you must remember that osteoarthritis is a disease without a cure. Our best hope is to delay progression and prevent cartilage and bone damage, since these two effects can’t be reversed. And, in order to prevent progression, we’ll begin treatment immediately after your diagnosis. 

If we catch your arthritis in its early stages, we can begin treatment by crafting a regular schedule of low-impact workouts for you to follow. You may also benefit from some physical therapy if you’re already experiencing some limits on your joint range of motion.  At the same time, we’ll likely suggest some medications to relieve your arthritis pain. For most patients at this stage of disease, taking ibuprofen daily will provide enough pain relief. However, because not all patients can tolerate this medication, we will carefully review your medical history and provide alternative options if necessary. One effective option may be managing your pain with our in-house laser therapy, designed to reduce pain without requiring you to take any medication. 

If foot arthritis progresses without intervention, your joints may sustain permanent damage. And, at that point, surgery may be your only treatment option. If that is the case, we’ll have to operate on your foot and fuse the affected joints—this can provide your foot with needed stability while keeping you mobile.  

Unfortunately, this type of foot surgery is highly invasive. And, during your recovery period, you may need to avoid bearing weight on your foot for as long as six months!  As such, we will always explore less invasive treatment options before recommending surgery. 

Luckily, there are many effective options.  We may recommend fitting you for an Ankle-Foot Orthotic (AFO), a special brace that minimizes your foot and ankle motion to take pressure off your damaged joints. Best of all, it can fit into your regular shoes, so it doesn’t become a disruptive intervention. 

Don’t worry—other treatment options are available. And they can be equally effective, without requiring surgery or extended down time. One such option is a special brace called an Ankle-Foot Orthotic, or AFO. Made to fit your specific anatomy, and designed to fit into your own shoes, this brace minimizes motion in the foot or ankle bones that have suffered arthritic damage, reducing pain and irritation. 

Looking to relieve the pain of foot arthritis without surgery? Want to stay active and live your life without the daily stiffness and discomfort?  We’re here to help! Just schedule a consultation Dr. Lisa Brandy. When you come into the office, she’ll create a customized treatment plan that will manage your pain and fit into your liefstyle!