What is arthritis?
The most common form of arthritis is osteoarthritis. Millions of people suffer from osteoarthritis, which occurs over time from overuse of muscles and joints. The cartilage between the bones at a pivotal joint has worn away. As a result, bones grind against each other, causing discomfort and swelling.
Why do the joints in my big-toe joint hurt?
Severe big-toe joint pain is usually caused by either osteoarthritis from degeneration of the cartilage at the base of your big toe or by a complex form of arthritis called gout. Men are more likely to get gout, although women can get it after menopause.
Gout is caused by a high level of uric acid in the blood, which results in sodium urate crystals deposits forming around the joints and even in the kidneys in the form of stones.
If left untreated, big-toe joint pain can become more frequent and it’s possible to damage cartilage to the point where performance of the joint can be compromised.
Acute attacks of gout can happen at nighttime. The big-toe joint pain can be so severe that even the weight of your sheets in bed can be uncomfortable.
With the proper medication, patients can lower the level of uric acid in their blood and decrease the chances of developing gouty arthritis. Talk to a podiatrist at Washington Foot & Ankle Sports Medicine for more details on your particular condition.
How do I know if the pain in my feet and ankles is arthritis?
Osteoarthritis is commonly found in:
- The joint where the ankle and shinbone intersect
- The three joints of the foot that involve the heel bone, the inner midfoot bone, and the outer midfoot bone
- The joint of the big toe and foot bone
Millions of people have arthritis, but many have found effective ways to continue an active life. Talk to a podiatrist at Washington Foot & Ankle Sports Medicine to diagnose your medical condition, with every expectation of continuing a long, active life. To schedule an appointment, call or book online today.
