Foot & Ankle Arthritis Treatment in Flower Mound, TX
Arthritis in the foot and ankle can make even simple activities — walking to the mailbox, climbing stairs, or standing in the kitchen — genuinely painful. At DFW Foot and Ankle, Dr. Davey Suh provides expert diagnosis and comprehensive, individualized arthritis treatment to help patients throughout Flower Mound, TX manage their symptoms, protect their joints, and stay active. Call (972) 899-2170 to schedule your appointment today.
Understanding Foot and Ankle Arthritis
Arthritis is a broad term describing inflammation in one or more joints. In the foot and ankle, arthritis can affect any of the 33 joints — and because these joints are load-bearing and involved in every step you take, arthritic changes in the foot can have a significant impact on mobility and quality of life.
The foot has several joints that are particularly prone to arthritis. The ankle joint, the subtalar joint (which controls side-to-side motion of the heel), the first metatarsophalangeal joint at the base of the big toe, and the midfoot joints are among the most commonly affected. Depending on the type and location of arthritis, symptoms can range from mild stiffness and aching to severe pain, deformity, and difficulty bearing weight.
Types of Arthritis Affecting the Foot and Ankle
Osteoarthritis
Osteoarthritis (OA) is the most common form of arthritis and is sometimes called “wear-and-tear” arthritis. It occurs when the protective cartilage that cushions the ends of bones gradually breaks down over time, causing the joint surfaces to rub together. In the foot, OA most commonly affects the big toe joint (hallux rigidus), the ankle joint, and the midfoot joints. Risk factors include age, obesity, previous joint injuries, and repetitive stress on specific joints.
Rheumatoid Arthritis
Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune condition in which the body’s immune system attacks the joint lining (synovium), causing progressive inflammation and joint destruction. The foot and ankle are among the most commonly affected areas in RA — often one of the first places the disease manifests. RA can cause significant deformities including bunions, hammer toes, and collapsed arches if not properly managed.
Post-Traumatic Arthritis
Post-traumatic arthritis develops in a joint that has been previously injured — from a fracture, dislocation, or severe sprain. Even when the original injury heals, the damaged cartilage may not recover fully, leading to accelerated arthritic degeneration years later. Ankle fractures and severe ankle sprains are common precursors to post-traumatic ankle arthritis.
Gout
Gout is a form of inflammatory arthritis caused by the buildup of uric acid crystals in joints. It most frequently attacks the first metatarsophalangeal joint at the base of the big toe, producing sudden episodes of intense pain, redness, warmth, and swelling. Gout flares can be severely debilitating and often occur at night or in the early morning hours.
Symptoms of Foot and Ankle Arthritis
Common symptoms of foot and ankle arthritis include:
- Joint pain that worsens with activity and eases with rest
- Morning stiffness or stiffness after periods of inactivity
- Swelling, warmth, or redness around affected joints
- Reduced range of motion in the foot or ankle
- A grinding or crunching sensation (crepitus) in the joint
- Difficulty walking, particularly on uneven surfaces
- Changes in foot shape or the development of deformities over time
Arthritis Treatment at DFW Foot and Ankle
Dr. Suh will evaluate your foot and ankle through physical examination and imaging — X-rays, and in some cases MRI or CT scans — to assess the extent of joint damage and determine the best course of treatment. Blood tests may be ordered to identify inflammatory or autoimmune types of arthritis.
Treatment goals include reducing pain, managing inflammation, preserving joint function, and slowing the progression of joint damage. A personalized treatment plan may include:
Custom Orthotics
Custom orthotics are designed to offload arthritic joints, redistribute pressure, correct alignment, and cushion painful areas. They are one of the most effective conservative tools for managing foot arthritis day-to-day and are particularly helpful for big toe arthritis, midfoot arthritis, and arthritis associated with flat feet or overpronation.
MLS Laser Therapy
MLS laser therapy is an excellent non-invasive option for arthritis pain management. It reduces joint inflammation, relieves pain at the cellular level, improves circulation to the affected joint, and promotes tissue repair — all without medications or injections. Many patients with foot and ankle arthritis achieve significant, lasting relief through a series of MLS laser treatments.
Anti-Inflammatory Medications
Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) — available over the counter and by prescription — can help manage arthritis pain and inflammation. Dr. Suh will advise on appropriate use and consider your overall health when recommending any medication.
Cortisone Injections
Corticosteroid injections deliver powerful anti-inflammatory medication directly into the affected joint, providing targeted relief for arthritis flares and chronic joint pain. They can be particularly effective for ankle arthritis, big toe joint arthritis, and gout-related inflammation.
Activity Modification and Footwear
Low-impact activities such as swimming, cycling, and walking on soft surfaces are generally well-tolerated by arthritic joints. Appropriate footwear with good cushioning and support can also make a significant difference in daily comfort. Dr. Suh will advise on both activity choices and footwear selection.
Surgical Treatment
When conservative measures no longer provide adequate relief and joint damage is advanced, surgical options may be considered. These range from joint debridement and cartilage procedures to joint fusion (arthrodesis) or total ankle replacement for severe ankle arthritis. Dr. Suh will discuss all options and help you understand what each approach involves before any surgical decision is made.
Living Well with Foot and Ankle Arthritis in Flower Mound, TX
Arthritis is a chronic condition, but with the right management approach it doesn’t have to define your daily life. Dr. Suh works with each patient to develop a long-term plan that manages symptoms, protects joint health, and keeps you as active as possible. Call (972) 899-2170 or book online to schedule your arthritis evaluation at DFW Foot and Ankle in Flower Mound, TX.
Foot and Ankle Arthritis FAQs
Can arthritis in the foot and ankle be cured?
Arthritis cannot be cured, but it can be very effectively managed. With the right combination of treatments — including custom orthotics, MLS laser therapy, appropriate footwear, and activity modification — most patients with foot and ankle arthritis can significantly reduce their pain and maintain good function and quality of life.
What is hallux rigidus and how is it treated?
Hallux rigidus is osteoarthritis of the first metatarsophalangeal joint — the big toe joint. It causes stiffness, pain, and a progressive loss of motion in the big toe, making push-off during walking painful. Treatment includes stiff-soled footwear, custom orthotics, MLS laser therapy, cortisone injections, and surgical joint debridement or fusion for advanced cases.
How do I know if my foot pain is arthritis?
Arthritis typically causes joint pain that worsens with activity, morning stiffness, swelling around joints, and progressive changes in range of motion. Dr. Suh will examine your joints, order X-rays and other imaging as needed, and may run blood tests to confirm the type and extent of arthritis causing your symptoms.
Is walking good or bad for foot arthritis?
Moderate walking is generally beneficial for arthritic joints — it maintains circulation, preserves range of motion, and supports healthy cartilage. Excessive high-impact activity can aggravate symptoms. Dr. Suh will advise on the appropriate type, duration, and intensity of activity for your specific level of joint involvement.
Can custom orthotics slow the progression of arthritis?
Custom orthotics can help reduce the mechanical stress on arthritic joints, which may help slow the progression of cartilage wear over time. They are also highly effective at relieving pain and improving function — which can allow patients to remain more active, which in turn supports joint health.
What is the difference between osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis in the foot?
Osteoarthritis is a wear-and-tear condition caused by gradual cartilage breakdown, most common in older patients or those with prior joint injuries. Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune condition where the immune system attacks the joint lining, causing inflammation and progressive joint destruction. RA often affects multiple joints symmetrically and is managed in partnership with a rheumatologist. Both types benefit from podiatric care.
Are cortisone injections safe for foot and ankle arthritis?
Cortisone injections are safe when administered appropriately by a trained provider and can provide significant, rapid relief for arthritis flares and chronic joint pain. The frequency of injections is limited to avoid potential side effects such as cartilage thinning with overuse. Dr. Suh will discuss the appropriate role of injections as part of your overall treatment plan.