Arthritis in the Foot and Ankle: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options

Arthritis is a common cause of chronic joint pain and stiffness in the lower extremities. Because the feet contain 33 joints, they are especially vulnerable to wear and tear.

If you’re experiencing persistent foot or ankle pain, stiffness, or swelling, arthritis may be the underlying cause.

What Is Arthritis?

Arthritis is inflammation and degeneration of a joint. Over time, the protective cartilage that cushions bones can break down, causing pain, swelling, and reduced mobility.

Several types of arthritis affect the foot and ankle.

Osteoarthritis

Often called “wear-and-tear” arthritis, osteoarthritis develops gradually as cartilage deteriorates. It is most common in older adults or those with previous injuries.

Rheumatoid Arthritis

An autoimmune condition that causes the body to attack its own joint lining, leading to inflammation, deformity, and pain.

Post-Traumatic Arthritis

This form develops after a fracture, severe sprain, or other joint injury — sometimes years after the original trauma.

Common Symptoms of Foot and Ankle Arthritis

Symptoms may include:

Joint pain that worsens with activity
Stiffness, especially in the morning
Swelling around joints
Decreased range of motion
Tenderness
Difficulty walking
Joint deformity over time

Ankle arthritis often causes deep joint pain, while arthritis in the midfoot can make standing or push-off painful.

How Is Foot Arthritis Diagnosed?

A podiatrist will evaluate your symptoms, examine joint movement, and assess swelling or deformity. Imaging, such as X-ray,s can help determine the extent of cartilage loss and joint damage.

Early diagnosis allows for better long-term management.

Treatment Options for Foot and Ankle Arthritis

Treatment depends on the severity of joint damage and how much it affects your daily life.

Conservative Treatment

For many patients, non-surgical options are effective:

Supportive footwear
Custom orthotics to improve alignment
Anti-inflammatory medications
Bracing for stability
Activity modification
Physical therapy

Advanced Non-Surgical Therapies

Class IV laser therapy may help reduce inflammation, improve circulation, and support tissue healing in arthritic joints. While it does not reverse cartilage loss, it can help reduce pain and improve mobility.

Surgical Treatment

If conservative care no longer provides relief and arthritis severely limits function, surgical options may be considered. Depending on the joint involved, procedures may include joint stabilization, realignment, or joint fusion to eliminate painful motion.

Surgery is typically recommended only when pain significantly impacts quality of life and non-surgical treatments have been exhausted.

When to See a Podiatrist

You should seek evaluation if:

Foot or ankle pain persists for several weeks
Stiffness limits movement
Swelling continues despite rest
Walking becomes increasingly difficult

Ignoring arthritis can lead to worsening deformity and reduced mobility over time.

Take Control of Chronic Foot Pain

Arthritis in the foot and ankle can interfere with daily activities, exercise, and overall comfort. Early evaluation and a personalized treatment plan can help slow progression and maintain mobility.

At Gentle Foot and Ankle Care, we provide comprehensive care for arthritis and other chronic foot conditions — from conservative therapies to advanced surgical solutions when needed. Schedule an appointment today to discuss your symptoms and explore your treatment options.