Arthritis of the foot frequently develops because of wear and tear from years of rubbing. Eventually, the cartilage that covers the ends of the bones wears out. This causes inflammation, swelling, and some of the worst discomfort you can picture. Arthritis of the foot can also develop as a result of an injury to the foot that occurred at a particular point in the past, even a number of years earlier.

When arthritis develops in the foot, it frequently modifies the way you walk, which can put pressure on parts of the foot that are not accustomed to it, causing more complications. The ankle, heel, arch and big toe are the features of the foot that are most likely to develop arthritis. There are many types of arthritis pain medication available today.

The symptoms comprise of distressing, throbbing pain, stiffness or tenderness, swelling, and a reduction in the range of motion. If you have difficulties walking long distances, that can also be a hint of arthritis in the foot.

To help your doctor make the accurate diagnosis, it's a good idea to keep a pain journal to bring with you when you have your appointment. Ensure you record everything you can remember concerning the pain in your foot. Just how long has it been throbbing? Do you know what happened to make it start throbbing? Does it hurt more after physical activity or at night? Does the pain always appear in the same location or does it shift around?

Your doctor will use your pain diary and medical record, and give you a physical assessment. He or she might want to do a gait analysis, which is a test that permits the doctor to find out how you walk. X-rays, a CT scan or an MRI may also be useful to help the doctor reach the correct diagnosis.

Treatment of all types of pain be it arthritis pain or foot pain regularly focuses on pain relief. The actual harm to the foot regularly can't be restored. Over-the-counter medication, shoe supports and braces or a cane could be needed. Surgery is often used in serious cases.

Arthritis of the foot can be extremely painful and even debilitating. Take steps to prevent this disease by watching your weight, having on shoes that fit correctly and taking good care of your feet.