Arthritis in Feet: Understanding the Early Signs, Prevention Tips, and Relief Options

Arthritis is a widespread condition affecting approximately 53.5 million adults in the United States alone. It can affect any joint in the body, including those in the feet, making it difficult to walk and engage in daily activities. In this article, we will explore the different types of arthritis that can affect the feet, early signs to look out for, and ways to alleviate pain and discomfort.

Types of Arthritis That Affect the Feet

There are many other types of arthritis that can affect the feet, and the way they manifest can vary depending on the type and severity of the condition.

• Osteoarthritis - This type of arthritis is the most common type in feet. It usually affects people as they get older and is the degenerative disease that wears down the cartilage that cushions the ends of your bones. In the feet, this often affects the joints in the big toe, the midfoot, and the ankle. This type of arthritis can lead to pain, stiffness, and swelling, making it difficult to walk or perform everyday activities.[2]
• Rheumatoid arthritis - This type of arthritis that is an autoimmune disorder, which means that your immune system—which is supposed to protect your body from disease—mistakenly attacks the healthy tissue in your joints, including those in your feet. This can cause inflammation, pain, stiffness, and swelling. Over time, rheumatoid arthritis can cause joint deformity, bone erosion, and cartilage loss, which can make it harder for you to go about your daily tasks. Rheumatoid arthritis is more common in women and typically begins in middle age, but it can affect people of any gender or age. [3]
• Gout - This is another type of arthritis that can affect your feet. When you have gout, your body produces too much uric acid or has trouble getting rid of it. This causes the uric acid to form crystals in your joints, which can lead to inflammation and sudden, intense pain. Gout attacks can make it difficult to even stand. Gout typically affects the big toe, but it can also affect other joints in your feet. Certain foods, like red meat, shellfish, and sugary drinks, can increase your risk of developing gout.. [4]
• Psoriatic arthritis - If you have psoriasis—a chronic skin condition that causes red, scaly patches on the skin—you may also develop a type of arthritis called psoriatic arthritis. This condition can cause pain, stiffness, and swelling in the joints of your feet and toes, as well as your hands and fingers. Psoriatic arthritis happens when your immune system attacks the joints and connective tissue, causing inflammation and damage.[5]

Early Signs of Arthritis in the Feet

Arthritis in the feet can start subtly, but recognizing the early signs can help you manage the condition more effectively and prevent further joint damage. One of the first symptoms is often joint pain, particularly in the toes, midfoot, or ankle, which may become noticeable during or after physical activity, or even while resting. This pain is frequently accompanied by stiffness in the joints, especially in the morning or after periods of inactivity, making it difficult to move your feet freely.

Swelling is another common early sign, and you might notice your shoes feeling tighter or experience discomfort when walking. Additionally, you may feel tenderness when applying pressure to certain areas of your feet, and as the condition progresses, the affected joints may begin to develop a noticeable deformity or a bony bump, such as a bunion or bone spur. These symptoms can make it challenging to maintain your usual level of physical activity, highlighting the importance of early diagnosis and treatment to manage arthritis in your feet effectively.

Early signs can vary depending on the type of arthritis you have, so always consult with a health professional for diagnosis and treatment methods.

Managing Arthritis in the Feet

If you have arthritis in your feet, taking proactive steps can help manage symptoms and prevent further complications. One of the most crucial steps is wearing shoes that fit properly and provide adequate support, which will be discussed in more detail later.

Regular exercise is also important for maintaining joint health, as it strengthens the muscles around your joints and improves flexibility, helping to reduce stress on your feet. However, it's best to focus on low-impact exercises like swimming, cycling, or yoga, as high-impact activities like running or jumping can exacerbate joint pain and worsen symptoms.

Diet plays a significant role in managing arthritis, especially for those with inflammatory forms like rheumatoid or psoriatic arthritis. A well-balanced diet that includes anti-inflammatory foods such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins can help reduce inflammation and alleviate joint pain. Incorporating omega-3 fatty acids, found in foods like salmon, tuna, and nuts, can also be beneficial. Conversely, it's wise to limit foods high in saturated and trans fats, such as processed foods and red meat, as these can increase inflammation and aggravate arthritis symptoms.

Practicing good foot care is equally important. This includes inspecting your feet daily for any signs of irritation or injury, washing them with warm water and mild soap, and drying thoroughly, particularly between the toes. Soaking your feet in warm water with Epsom salt can also help relieve pain and reduce inflammation when needed. By incorporating these habits into your routine, you can better manage arthritis in your feet and maintain overall foot health.

Relief Options for Arthritis Pain

There are various relief options for arthritis in the feet that can help reduce pain and improve mobility. Over-the-counter pain relievers like acetaminophen or ibuprofen can be taken to alleviate pain. You can also use topical creams or gels that contain capsaicin or menthol to provide temporary pain relief. Physical therapy can help improve your range of motion and strengthen the muscles, while orthotic devices such as shoe inserts or braces can provide support and reduce pressure on the affected joints. Consult with your healthcare professional to determine the best course of treatment for your arthritis.

Shoes for Arthritis

Choosing the right shoes can make a big difference in managing arthritis pain in your feet. Look for shoes that have good arch support and cushioning at the heel and toes to reduce impact on your feet and lower body joints. Shoes with a wide and deep toe box can also help relieve pressure on your toes. Make sure the shoes fit well and have a non-slip sole to reduce the risk of falling. Avoid high heels and shoes with pointed toes, as they can prevent your feet from being anatomically positioned in the shoe causing pressure on affected areas of the foot. Instead try dress flats or footwear options with a lower heel height.

Allowing your toes to spread out naturally helps distribute weight evenly across the foot, which improves foot and ankle biomechanics and reduces the impact on arthritic joints.

Opt for shoes made with shock-absorbing materials, such as EVA or foam, in the midsole and insole, to cushion your feet with each step and help prevent foot pain and discomfort. If you need additional arch support, consider using orthotics or supportive insoles tailored to your specific foot shape and needs. These can provide extra stability and support, helping to alleviate pain and improve your overall foot health.

By understanding the types of arthritis that affect the feet, recognizing early signs, and implementing preventive and management strategies, individuals can effectively manage their symptoms and maintain an active lifestyle.

Flow Feet's Commitment To Arthritic Feet

Arthritis in the feet can be a painful and debilitating condition, but there are ways to manage it. By recognizing the early signs of arthritis, practicing prevention tips, and utilizing relief options, people with arthritis in their feet can improve their quality of life and continue to engage in daily activities.

If you're looking for comfortable and supportive shoes to relieve arthritis pain or manage diabetes, Flow Feet is here to help. With a range of styles and types available, you're sure to find a pair that provides the comfort and relief you need. Shop now and experience the difference in quality and support that Flow Feet can offer.

About author:

Naheed Ali, MD, PhD, is a physician by education and a writer by choice since 2005. He earned an MD degree in 2008 and later completed Harvard Medical School's lifestyle medicine training in 2012, before obtaining a PhD in holistic health elsewhere in 2013. He’s also certified in clinical research by National Institutes of Health (NIH).

He brings more than 15 years of experience writing remotely and has more than 15 years of health-related publications to his credit. Now a digital nomad, he’s currently a medical journalist and copywriter