Arthritic Foot and Ankle Care Treatment Options

Arthritic foot and ankle care can make simple tasks more bearable. Arthritis is a painful joint disease that has no cure, but there are treatment options available to reduce symptoms like stiffness and pain. There are some techniques you can practice at home that may lessen the severity of symptoms as well. If at-home methods do not seem to provide significant improvement, professional medical care can help.

TIPS FOR AT-HOME ARTHRITIC FOOT AND ANKLE CARE 

#1 WEAR COMFORTABLE AND SUPPORTIVE FOOTWEAR

Footwear can make or break a person’s day when they have arthritis. Proper footwear for people with arthritis consists of supportive, roomy shoes. Ensure any shoes worn provide arch support, comfortable soles, low heels and a spacey area for arthritic toes. Tight or stiff shoes will aggravate symptoms and cause more inflammation.

#2 USE ORTHOTIC SUPPORTS

Orthotic devices like gel inserts may reduce the symptoms of arthritis by providing support where natural foot padding has worn down. There is nothing more uncomfortable than hard soles rubbing against thin skin and sore bones. These devices can be purchased from most stores, but they can also be customized and ordered at a doctor’s office.

#3 OVER THE COUNTER NSAIDS MAY HELP

NSAIDs are nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs that reduce pain and swelling. While these should not be taken long-term unless prescribed, they may help reduce symptoms, especially on tough days. This method is not a permanent treatment option. By visiting a doctor’s office for arthritic care, you can obtain prescription medications that are safer for long-term use and will provide a higher level of relief.

#4 HEAT AND ICE THE FEET

Heating pads or creams alternated with icing may help reduce some symptoms of arthritis by directing healing circulation to the area and reducing inflammation.

#5 Stretching, massage, and acupuncture are advisable 

Stretching and massage can provide significant relief from arthritis pain if performed daily. Both techniques loosen up the limbs and body, creating less tension and stiffness. The blood flow that ensues keeps joints healthy.

ROUTINE MEDICAL ARTHRITIC FOOT AND ANKLE CARE IS ALSO IMPORTANT

While it is a good idea to employ all of these strategies when needed, they do not take the place of routine medical arthritic care. In our office, a doctor can monitor the spread and severity of arthritis in the body in addition to clarifying the type of arthritis a patient has and what that patient can expect from the disease. Physical therapy and prescriptions may be ordered by a doctor to supplement at-home care and provide more help for the patient. Diet advice may also be given as diet plays a large role in the development of inflammation in the body.

PROFESSIONAL HELP CAN MAKE ALL THE DIFFERENCE

Arthritis is a complex disease, one that is better faced with professional medical help by your side. If you are practicing at-home care techniques to reduce symptoms of arthritis, but you are having minimal success, visit a doctor for help in combatting the disease. Arthritic foot and ankle care can provide you with the relief you need to enjoy life to the fullest.

Request an appointment in our San Jose office here: https://footdoctorinsanjose.com.