There are actually many types of arthritis. A few of them are frequently found in the feet and ankles, however. Osteoarthritis is the most common one. Years of friction, stress, and wear and tear damage the protective layer of cartilage. The tissue becomes rough, frayed, and thin, allowing the hard bones underneath to rub against each other, inflaming and stiffening the whole joint. Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disease. The body’s immune system attacks and destroys tissues protecting the body’s joints, deforming them. Post-traumatic arthritis develops after a serious injury. The damage permanently injures the protective cartilage and encourages it to wear away.

Gout actually fits into this list as well. Although a highly unusual form, it’s also a type of arthritis that affects the feet. No matter what type of joint condition you have, however, you need to work on managing it to keep your feet moveable. Our team at Carolina Podiatry Group can help you with this. Just make an appointment at one of our South Carolina locations online. You can also call us: (803) 548-FEET for our Indian Land location, and (803) 285-1411 for our Lancaster office.