Foot arthritis can cause symptoms that occur in any joint affected by arthritis. Symptoms may vary depending on which joint in the foot is affected. Symptoms can be almost negligible, to very painful considering there are 30 joints in the foot, and 28 bones. Arthritis of the foot could be severe enough to require surgery to facilitate walking and balance, especially if conservative treatments fail. Various types of foot arthritis have specific symptoms. Symptoms generally include pain, swelling, stiffness and difficulty walking. The result is risk of injury from falls, especially if foot arthritis is not treated. Foot arthritis, regardless of the type, can have a negative impact on overall health and well being. Knowing your risk factors for developing foot arthritis can help with prevention, and early treatment.
Osteoarthritis of the Foot
The most common type of foot arthritis, according to Hospital for Special Surgery, is osteoarthritis---a condition that occurs from years of use. Injuries contribute to the development of osteoarthritis, especially if left untreated. Symptoms of osteoarthritis of the feet include pain, stiffness and swelling in any of the joints of the foot, including the ankle. It is also known as degenerative arthritis. Breakdown of the cartilage occurs, making it difficult to walk and remain active.
Gout Symptoms of the Foot
A sudden attack of foot arthritis from gout usually occurs at the base of the big toe, in the small joint, according to MedicineNet. Inflammation, pain, and throbbing are present. The toe might appear red, and be warm to the touch. The slightest touch can elicit intense pain. A fever might accompany an attack of gout that affects the foot.
Rheumatoid Arthritis Foot Symptoms
Rheumatoid arthritis, an autoimmune disease that attacks the joints in the feet, causes pain, swelling, redness and burning around the affected areas. The bones and cartilage can become damaged, causing deformity in the ankles and toes. Other symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis in the foot include stiffness and difficulty walking. The ball of the foot is most affected most often, according to FootPhysicians.com, the website of the American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons.
Ankylosing Spondylitis of the Foot
Ankylosing spondylitis is a form of arthritis that can also affect the feet. Symptoms occur on the bottom of the feet from plantar fasciitis, or in the Achilles tendon, producing tendonitis. Pain occurs on the bottom of the feet and at the back of the heel, according to ehealthMD.com.
Reiter's Syndrome Foot Symptoms
Reiter's syndrome, also called reactive arthritis, can also cause arthritis foot symptoms, according to Medline Plus. The disease produces symptoms of rash on the feet. It normally occurs as the result of an infection. Pain, swelling and rash occur in the feet one to four weeks after infection has occurred.
Psoriatic Arthritis and the Feet
Psoriatic arthritis of the feet accompanies psoriasis of the skin. Symptoms include joint pain, swelling and skin lesions, according to Medline Plus. The toenails can grow abnormally, become thickened and painful. The toenails have a pitting appearance. Inflammation and pain can occur in the tendons that attach to the bones. The disease can affect children as well as adults. Injuries and bacterial infections can trigger psoriatic arthritis. Genetics also play a role in the development of arthritis that can affect the feet. Symptoms might occur in one foot, as well as the wrists or other areas of the body.
