Foot & Ankle Arthritis - Arthritic Feet

Foot & Ankle Arthritis (Arthritic Feet)

Foot & Ankle Arthritis: Causes, Symptoms & Treatment

Pain, Stiffness Or Arthritis In Your Feet Or Ankles?

Arthritis is one of the most common causes of foot and ankle pain, stiffness and reduced mobility.

Although many people associate arthritis with the knees, hips or hands, the feet contain more than 30 joints and are frequently affected by arthritic changes.

For some people, symptoms are mild and manageable. For others, arthritis can begin to affect walking, exercise, balance, independence and quality of life.

Many people describe:

  • Stiffness when getting out of bed

  • Pain when walking longer distances

  • Difficulty keeping up with family and friends

  • Discomfort when exercising or playing golf

  • Reduced confidence on uneven ground

  • A feeling that their feet simply don't move as easily as they once did

At Callen Olive, we regularly assess and manage foot and ankle arthritis, helping people understand their condition and remain as active, comfortable and mobile as possible.

What Is Arthritis?

Arthritis describes changes that occur within a joint and may result in:

  • Pain

  • Stiffness

  • Inflammation

  • Reduced movement

  • Joint enlargement

  • Loss of cartilage

  • Changes in foot shape

Arthritis is not a single condition.

Several different types of arthritis can affect the feet and ankles.

Types Of Arthritis Affecting The Feet & Ankles

Osteoarthritis

The most common form of arthritis.

Often described as "wear and tear" arthritis, osteoarthritis develops when the cartilage within a joint gradually changes over time.

Rheumatoid Arthritis

An autoimmune condition that can affect multiple joints throughout the body, including the feet and ankles.

Post-Traumatic Arthritis

Arthritis that develops following a previous injury or fracture.

Gout

A form of inflammatory arthritis caused by crystal deposits within the joint.

The big toe joint is one of the most commonly affected areas.

Common Symptoms Of Arthritic Feet

Symptoms may include:

  • Joint pain

  • Stiffness

  • Swelling

  • Difficulty walking

  • Reduced flexibility

  • Changes in foot shape

  • Difficulty wearing certain footwear

  • Reduced walking endurance

  • Reduced activity levels

  • Pain during exercise

  • Loss of confidence in mobility

Many people notice symptoms are worse first thing in the morning or after periods of inactivity.

Where Does Arthritis Commonly Occur?

Big Toe Joint

One of the most common locations.

This may lead to Big Toe Arthritis (Hallux Rigidus).

Midfoot

Arthritis affecting the arch region of the foot can cause pain during walking and prolonged standing.

Ankle Joint

Ankle arthritis may affect mobility, balance and confidence.

Lesser Toe Joints

Arthritic changes may contribute to deformities and discomfort within the forefoot.

Arthritis Does Not Affect Everyone The Same Way

One of the biggest misconceptions surrounding arthritis is that X-rays determine how much pain a person will experience.

This is not always the case.

Some people have significant arthritic changes on imaging but very few symptoms.

Others experience considerable pain despite relatively modest changes.

At Callen Olive, we treat the person, not the X-ray.

Our focus is on understanding how arthritis is affecting your comfort, mobility and quality of life.

Arthritis Doesn't Mean You Have To Stop Being Active

Many people assume arthritis means they should avoid exercise and simply accept that pain is now part of getting older.

This is rarely the case.

Remaining active is often one of the most beneficial things you can do.

Movement helps support:

  • Joint mobility

  • Muscle strength

  • Balance

  • Independence

  • Confidence

  • Mental wellbeing

Our goal is to help you continue doing the things you enjoy for as long as possible.

Whether that's walking the dog, travelling, playing golf, keeping up with grandchildren or simply enjoying an active retirement, staying mobile matters.

Why Early Assessment Matters

Many people assume arthritis is something they simply have to live with.

Whilst arthritis cannot be reversed, there is often a great deal that can be done to improve comfort and maintain mobility.

Early assessment and treatment may help:

  • Reduce pain

  • Improve joint function

  • Maintain activity levels

  • Support independence

  • Reduce compensation patterns

  • Improve quality of life

  • Help you remain active for longer

The earlier appropriate management begins, the better the opportunity to maintain long-term mobility and wellbeing.

How We Assess Foot & Ankle Arthritis

Assessment begins with understanding your symptoms and how they are affecting your everyday life.

This may include:

  • Clinical examination

  • Joint mobility testing

  • Foot posture assessment

  • Biomechanical assessment

  • OptoGait gait analysis

  • Footwear review

  • Activity assessment

Where appropriate, diagnostic imaging may also be recommended.

By understanding how your feet function and identifying the joints involved, we can create a personalised treatment plan tailored to your individual needs and goals.

Your Personalised Treatment Plan

Treatment depends on the joints involved, symptom severity and your individual goals.

Footwear Advice

Appropriate footwear can often significantly improve comfort and reduce stress on arthritic joints.

Custom Foot Orthotics

Custom Foot Orthotics may help improve foot function, reduce pressure on affected joints and support more comfortable movement.

Activity Modification

Remaining active is important, although activities may occasionally need to be modified during flare-ups.

Steroid Injections

Steroid injections may help reduce inflammation and provide pain relief in selected joints.

Ostenil (Hyaluronic Acid) Injections

Ostenil injections may help improve joint lubrication, reduce discomfort and support mobility in suitable patients.

Rehabilitation & Exercise

Maintaining strength, flexibility and mobility is often an important part of managing arthritis.

Our goal is not simply to reduce pain.

Our goal is to help you continue moving with comfort, confidence and ease.

Why Choose Callen Olive?

We Care.

We understand that arthritis affects far more than joints alone.

Pain and stiffness can affect confidence, independence and the ability to enjoy everyday activities.

Our experienced clinicians combine biomechanics, movement assessment and personalised treatment planning to help people manage arthritic feet and remain active for as long as possible.

Because healthy feet play an important role in healthy ageing, wellbeing and quality of life.

Healthy Feet. Healthy Body. Healthy Mind.

Treatment Fees

No two patients are the same.

That's why every treatment plan is tailored to your individual needs, lifestyle and goals. Following your assessment, your clinician will explain the treatment options available and help you choose the most appropriate pathway to achieve the best possible outcome.

Our focus is always on helping you achieve the best possible outcome for your comfort, mobility and long-term wellbeing.

New Patient Biomechanics Assessment: £180

New Patient Biomechanics Assessment with Principal Podiatrist: £225

Our team will support you throughout every stage of your recovery to ensure you feel informed, reassured and cared for.

If you are unsure which appointment is most suitable, our Patient Care Team will be happy to help.

Call us on +44 333 305 8347.

Related Conditions

  • Big Toe Arthritis (Hallux Rigidus)

  • Bunions

  • Posterior Tibial Tendon Dysfunction (PTTD)

  • Metatarsalgia

  • Gout

Related Treatments

  • Biomechanical Assessment

  • OptoGait Gait Analysis

  • Custom Foot Orthotics

  • Steroid Injections

  • Ostenil Injections

Learn More

  • Active Ageing & Foot Health

  • Falls Prevention & Foot Health

  • Walking For Wellbeing

  • Foot Health For Golfers

Frequently Asked Questions

Does arthritis in the feet get worse over time?

Arthritis can progress over time, although everyone experiences it differently. Early assessment and appropriate management can often help maintain comfort and mobility.

Can arthritis in the feet be treated?

Whilst arthritis cannot be reversed, many treatments can help reduce pain, improve function and support long-term mobility.

Is walking good for arthritic feet?

In most cases, yes. Remaining active is often beneficial for joint health, muscle strength and overall wellbeing.

Will I need surgery?

No. Most people with foot and ankle arthritis do not require surgery and successfully manage their symptoms with conservative treatment.

Can orthotics help arthritic feet?

For some people, Custom Foot Orthotics may help reduce pressure on painful joints and improve comfort during walking and everyday activities.

Don't Let Arthritis Slow You Down

With the right advice, treatment and support, many people with foot and ankle arthritis continue to enjoy active and fulfilling lives.

Book your assessment today and take the first step towards moving with comfort, confidence and ease.

Book a Consultation Now Call Us Now

Every step should feel comfortable, confident and free from distraction. We're here to help you get back to doing the things you love with healthy feet that support your wellbeing.

Whether you're seeking advice, exploring treatment options or ready to begin your journey, we're here to help.