Arthritis of the Foot – Relieving Chronic Joint Pain and Restoring Mobility

Overview

 

Your feet contain over 30 joints that work together to support movement and balance. When arthritis develops in these joints, it can cause chronic pain, stiffness, and swelling, making walking or standing increasingly difficult.

Arthritis of the foot occurs when the cartilage that cushions and protects the joints begins to wear down or becomes inflamed. As cartilage deteriorates, bones rub directly against each other, leading to pain, deformity, and loss of motion.

At Dr. Burke Orthopedics, we understand how foot arthritis can limit your mobility and affect your quality of life. We offer comprehensive, evidence-based treatments—both non-surgical and surgical—to help patients across Pearland, Houston, Friendswood, and Southeast Texas regain comfort, stability, and confidence with every step

Understanding Plantar Fasciitis

 

Foot arthritis isn’t a single condition—it includes several forms that can affect different joints and tissues throughout the foot and ankle.

Most common types include:

  • Osteoarthritis: The most common type, caused by gradual wear and tear over time.
  • Rheumatoid arthritis: An autoimmune disease where the body’s immune system attacks joint tissue
  • Post-traumatic arthritis: Develops after an injury or fracture to the foot or ankle.
  • Gout: Caused by uric acid crystal buildup within the joint, leading to sudden flare-ups of pain and swelling.
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The most frequently affected joints are the big toe (first metatarsophalangeal joint), midfoot joints, and the ankle joint.

Common Causes and Risk Factors

 
Causes:
  • Age-related cartilage wear.
  • Previous injury or fracture to the foot or ankle.
  • Autoimmune inflammation (rheumatoid arthritis).
  • Obesity, increasing load on foot joints
  • Family history of arthritis.
  • Gout or metabolic disorders.
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Risk Factors:

  • Repetitive stress or impact activity.
  • Poorly supported footwear.
  • Joint deformities (flatfoot, bunions).
  • Chronic overuse or misalignment of the foot and ankle.
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Symptoms

 

Foot arthritis symptoms may progress slowly and vary based on the affected joints.

Most common signs include:

  • Chronic pain and stiffness, especially in the morning or after rest.
  • Swelling, warmth, or redness around the joints.
  • Tenderness when pressing on or moving the joint.
  • Reduced range of motion and difficulty bending the toes or ankle.
  • Grinding or cracking sensations when moving the foot.
  • Visible deformities such as bunions, hammertoes, or collapsed arches.
  • Pain that worsens with walking, standing, or weather changes.
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If left untreated, arthritis can cause joint fusion, chronic swelling, and gait imbalance.

Diagnosis

 

At Dr. Burke OrthopedicsDr. Robert L. Burke conducts a detailed evaluation to determine the type and severity of arthritis and its effect on joint function.

Diagnostic process includes:

  • Medical history: Review of symptoms, onset, and any history of injury or autoimmune conditions.
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Physical examination:

  • Assessing joint tenderness, range of motion, and deformities.
  • Checking for swelling or instability.
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Imaging:

  • X-rays: Show joint space narrowing, bone spurs, and alignment.
  • Ultrasound or MRI: May be used for chronic cases to visualize tissue inflammation or tears.
  • Lab tests: In cases of rheumatoid arthritis or gout, to confirm inflammatory or metabolic causes
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Accurate diagnosis ensures a customized, effective treatment plan.

Treatment Options at Dr. Burke Orthopedics

 

The goal of treatment is to reduce pain, preserve joint function, and improve mobility. Most patients benefit from a structured, non-surgical approach before considering surgery.

Non-Surgical Treatments

  • Activity modification: Avoid high-impact activities and prolonged standing.
  • Supportive footwear: Cushioned soles and wide toe boxes reduce joint stress.
  • Custom orthotics: Redistribute pressure and improve alignment.
  • Anti-inflammatory medications: Relieve swelling and discomfort.
  • Ice and heat therapy: Manage pain and stiffness.
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  • Platelet-rich plasma injections may help reduce inflammation and promote tissue healing in arthritic joints.
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  • Platelet-rich plasma injections may help reduce inflammation and promote tissue healing in arthritic joints.
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Bracing or ankle supports: Used to stabilize weakened joints and limit painful motion.

With consistent management, many patients experience lasting relief and improved movement.

Surgical Treatments

If arthritis has caused severe joint damage or deformity, Dr. Burke may recommend surgical options to restore function and reduce pain
Surgical procedures include:

  • Arthroscopy: Minimally invasive procedure to remove inflamed tissue or bone spurs.
  • Joint fusion (arthrodesis): Eliminates motion at a severely damaged joint to relieve pain.
  • Joint replacement (arthroplasty): Replaces the damaged joint surfaces with artificial components for smoother movement.
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  • Corrects alignment issues and stabilizes surrounding structures for improved foot mechanics.
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Modern techniques aim to preserve as much joint motion as possible while eliminating pain sources.

Recovery and Rehabilitation

 
Typical recovery timelines:
  • Non-surgical: Noticeable improvement in 4–6 weeks with therapy and orthotics.
  • Surgical: Recovery depends on procedure type—fusion or replacement typically requires 8–12 weeks for bone healing, followed by rehabilitation.
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Rehabilitation goals:

  • Restore joint flexibility and strength.
  • Gradual weight-bearing with proper support.
  • Improve balance and walking stability.
  • Prevent recurrence of pain through ongoing exercise and joint protection.
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A structured physical therapy program plays a vital role in long-term success.

Long-Term Outlook and Prevention

 

While arthritis cannot be reversed, early intervention and ongoing care can slow progression and maintain mobility.

Prevention tips:

  • Wear supportive, shock-absorbing shoes.
  • Maintain a healthy body weight.
  • Stretch and strengthen feet and ankles daily.
  • Avoid high-impact activities on hard surfaces.
  • Manage systemic conditions like gout or rheumatoid arthritis early.
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With proper management, most patients achieve lasting pain control and improved quality of life.

When to Seek Medical Care

 

Contact Dr. Burke Orthopedics if you experience:

  • Persistent foot or ankle pain limits walking or standing.
  • Swelling, stiffness, or deformity around the joints.
  • Pain that worsens after activity or prolonged rest.
  • Loss of balance or mobility due to foot instability.
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Early orthopedic evaluation can prevent further joint deterioration and enhance long-term outcomes.

Step Forward with Comfort and Confidence

Chronic foot pain shouldn’t limit your lifestyle. At Dr. Burke Orthopedics, we provide advanced, patient-centered care for foot arthritis, combining conservative treatments with surgical expertise when needed.

Serving Pearland, Houston, Friendswood, and Southeast Texas, our goal is to restore your ability to move comfortably and live actively again.

Call (713) 436-3488 or Request an Appointment Online to schedule a consultation with Dr. Robert L. Burke, board-certified orthopedic surgeon specializing in joint preservation and reconstructive foot care.

Medical Disclaimer:

This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for medical advice or diagnosis. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider regarding any concerns about joint pain, swelling, or stiffness. If you experience sudden swelling, redness, or severe pain, seek prompt medical attention.

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