Arthritis is a thinning and damage to cartilage in joints, reducing the joint’s ability to provide shock absorption. In response, the joints swell, become rigid and are painful. Eventually there will be reduced range of motion at the site or sites of the arthritis. The joints may appear swollen and red and hammer toes, overlapping toes or claw toes may develop.
There are many types of arthritis but the results of the damage created by the disease are usually similar. The challenge is to provide support for the arch and shoes that are as low impact as possible, soft and flexible.
Other names or similar foot conditions:
- Various arthritis types, such as osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis
- Degenerating bones
Symptoms:
- Inflammation and discomfort around joints (e.g., toes, ankles, etc.)
- Reduced range of motion in joints
- Stiffness and pain when walking or at rest
Signs to look for:
- Loss of range of motion
- Stiffness and swelling in joints
- Snapping at the joints
- X-ray and lab testing results
Possible Causes:
- Injury
- Normal aging process
- Overuse through sports
- Cartilage degeneration through natural aging or surgery
- Systemic disease, such as rheumatoid arthritis
Goals:
- Medical care as required
- Footwear to accommodate deformity in feet
- Support arch and control motion of foot
- Create alignment of the ankle, top of the foot and knees
How We Help:
Arch Supports:
- BioOrthotics exercising support with metatarsal lift
- Lower and thinner arch support with longitudinal and metatarsal support for use when shoes cannot accommodate the BioOrthotics exercising support
- Lynco orthotics where softer orthotic needed
- Plastazote cushion where additional cushioning is needed
Shoes:
- Extra depth, double or triple depth shoe with high toe box, firm heel counter, rocker sole and connecting shank
- Smart footwear, such as stable heel to toe rockers, negative heel shoes, non-flexible forefoot shoes or shoes with titanium springs
- Avoid stability shoes and clogs as they create more impact at the knees than flexible walking shoes.
- Avoid flip-flops. Only wear sandals with a back and only the Orthaheel, Alegria or Aetrex brand
- Shoes with stretchable sides and uppers if toes rubbing
- Wear heels and pumps only as long as absolutely necessary
- Avoid going barefoot or do so on a minimal basis only
Other:
- Toe cushioning and straightening devices, such as toe separators, toe straighteners, toe caps, toe crests, etc.
- Spot stretching of shoes
Activities:
- Medical treatment
- Rotation of weight bearing and non-weight bearing exercising, such as walking (weight bearing) with swimming and bicycling (non-weight bearing)
This information does not constitute a diagnosis of your condition and does not take the place of a doctor’s care. The information has been compiled from sources available to the general public and referenced below. Copyright 2005-2011 Carole Romig
Sources Image: D. Janisse, CPed, Editor, Introduction to Pedorthics Text: R. Cailliet, MD, Foot and Ankle Pain, Najia Shakoor, MD, Bottom Line Year Book 2012