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Foot and Ankle Arthritis: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

Foot and ankle arthritis occurs when joints become damaged or inflamed, causing pain, stiffness, swelling, and difficulty walking or standing comfortably. Common types include osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and gout, each with different causes and treatment approaches. Arthritis can affect the toes, midfoot, heels, and ankles, making everyday activities increasingly uncomfortable.

Learn about foot and ankle arthritis symptoms, common causes, and treatment options, including how supportive footwear, cushioned insoles, and orthotics may help relieve joint discomfort. Our Board-Certified Pedorthists provide expert guidance on arch support, cushioning, pressure relief, and selecting the right insoles for your feet.

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Inflammation and Stiffness

Arthritis is a painful inflammation of the joints which can cause discomfort and stiffness in the foot or ankle.

The most common types of arthritis in the foot include osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and gout.

What Is Arthritis?

There are different types of arthritis which commonly affect the foot or ankle, including osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis and gout. Arthritic pain can range from mild to severe. Each type of arthritis can cause different symptoms, but in all of them inflammation is a factor. Osteoarthritis is a common type of joint disease, also called degenerative joint disease or “wear and tear” arthritis in which cartilage between joints breaks down leading to swelling, stiffness, and pain. Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disease which causes painful swelling in the joint lining and eventually causes joint erosion and bone deformity.

Gout is a very common form of arthritis which differs from the other types and is usually noticed with the sudden onset of pain in the joint of the big toe.

What Causes Arthritis?

It is important to see a doctor for diagnosis of arthritis and a proper treatment plan. Anti-inflammatory medication is commonly prescribed at the beginning of onset and exact treatment will be determined according to what type of arthritis is diagnosed and what stage it is at.

What Can I Do?

See a Doctor

It is important to see a doctor for diagnosis of arthritis and a proper treatment plan. Anti-inflammatory medication is commonly prescribed at the beginning of onset and exact treatment will be determined according to what type of arthritis is diagnosed and what stage it is at.

Wear Proper Footwear

With all types of arthritis, it is important for the patient to wear properly fit shoes. Shoes with a rocker bottom sole can help to relieve pressure in the forefoot. Using insoles to add some shock absorption beneath the foot to compensate for the stiffness of the joints can also help provide some relief. For those who suffer from osteoarthritis in the ankle, a high top shoe or boot can be beneficial in helping to provide ankle stability.

Using insoles to add some shock absorption beneath the foot to compensate for the stiffness of the joints can also help provide some relief.