Foot and Ankle Osteoarthritis: Diagnosis and Treatment


 

Foot and ankle osteoarthritis is a common and often debilitating condition that affects millions of people worldwide. While many people are familiar with osteoarthritis in the knees and hips, it can also impact the small joints of the feet and ankles. In this blog, we'll delve into what foot and ankle osteoarthritis is, its symptoms, and the diagnosis process, with insights from highly-experienced orthopaedician in South Kolkata.

What Is Foot and Ankle Osteoarthritis?

Osteoarthritis, also called the "wear and tear" form of arthritis, is a degenerative joint condition that primarily affects the cartilage, the protective cushioning at the ends of bones within a joint. 

Osteoarthritis develops in four stages. They are as follows: 

Stage 1: Minor- In this stage, there’s little to no pain in the joints. 

Stage 2: Mild- Bone spurs occur. 

Stage 3: Moderate-Cartilage in the area affected starts to erode. 

Stage 4: Severe- In this stage, the patient experiences excessive pain. 


In the case of foot and ankle osteoarthritis, this cartilage in the small joints of the feet and ankles deteriorates over time. The condition typically develops as a result of aging, previous joint injuries, or genetic predisposition.

Symptoms of Foot and Ankle Osteoarthritis

Best orthopaedician in South Kolkata has explained some of the following symptoms of foot and ankle osteoarthritis: 

  • Pain: Pain is the most common and prominent symptom of foot and ankle osteoarthritis. It tends to be worse with activity and improves with rest. Individuals often describe the pain as a deep ache in the affected joint.

  • Stiffness: Stiffness in the foot and ankle joints can make it challenging to move or walk, particularly after periods of inactivity.

  • Swelling: Swelling around the affected joints is a common symptom. It may be mild to moderate and can contribute to the feeling of stiffness.

  • Reduced Range of Motion: Osteoarthritis can limit the range of motion in the affected joints, making it difficult to perform everyday activities, such as bending the toes or pointing the foot.

  • Tenderness: The joints can become tender to the touch, and even the slightest pressure can be painful.

  • Grating Sensation: As the cartilage wears down, the joint surfaces can rub against each other, causing a grating or creaking sensation, known as crepitus.

Diagnosis of Foot and Ankle Osteoarthritis:

Diagnosing foot and ankle osteoarthritis involves a comprehensive evaluation by an orthopedic specialist. According to the BIPED classification, serum COMP levels are linked to the diagnosis, disease burden, and prognosis of osteoarthritis (OA).

The diagnostic process typically includes the following steps: 

  • Medical History: Your healthcare provider will begin by conducting a thorough review of your medical background to get information like when your symptoms first appeared, how they have developed over time, any past joint injuries, and any family history of arthritis.

  • Physical Examination: Your healthcare provider will perform a hands-on evaluation of the impacted foot and ankle joints to determine factors such as tenderness, swelling, range of motion, and joint stability. 

  • Imaging Studies: X-rays are the most commonly used imaging modality for diagnosing osteoarthritis. X-rays can reveal joint damage, cartilage loss, and the formation of bone spurs (osteophytes).

  • Joint Aspiration: In some cases, a joint aspiration may be performed, where a small sample of synovial fluid (the fluid in the joint) is removed and analyzed. This can help rule out other conditions and assess for signs of inflammation.


Foot and ankle osteoarthritis can be a painful condition, but a reputed orthopedician in South Kolkata assures that with an accurate diagnosis, appropriate treatment, and lifestyle modifications, individuals can manage their symptoms and maintain an active and fulfilling life. Early intervention and a proactive approach to managing the condition can make a significant difference in the quality of life for those affected by foot and ankle osteoarthritis.

Location: Kolkata, West Bengal, India

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