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Foot & Ankle Arthritis & Joint Care

Osteoarthritis of the Foot, Ankle, Midfoot & Subtalar Joint

Causes, symptoms, and treatment for osteoarthritis of the foot and ankle, with care at 15 clinics across Middle Tennessee.

Part of Foot & Ankle Arthritis & Joint Care

Understanding osteoarthritis of the foot and ankle and your options.

Osteoarthritis is the slow wearing down of the smooth cartilage that cushions a joint. In the foot and ankle it can affect the big toe, the midfoot, the ankle, or the subtalar joint under the ankle.

It is more common with age and after past injuries. The pain usually builds slowly, and early care can keep you walking comfortably.

Request an appointmentCall 615-220-8788
Osteoarthritis of the Foot, Ankle, Midfoot & Subtalar Joint care

Symptoms

Signs of osteoarthritis of the foot and ankle.

If you notice these signs, an exam can give you clear answers.

  • 01

    Aching and stiffness in the joint, worse after rest

  • 02

    Swelling or a bony bump over the joint

  • 03

    Pain with long walks or on hard floors

  • 04

    Less motion in the foot or ankle

Why it happens

What can cause osteoarthritis of the foot and ankle.

  • 01

    Years of normal wear on the joint

  • 02

    Old sprains, breaks, or joint injuries

  • 03

    Flat or high-arched foot shape

  • 04

    Family history of arthritis

Care groupFoot & Ankle Arthritis & Joint Care

Diagnosis and care

How we treat osteoarthritis of the foot and ankle.

Step 1 · Diagnosis

We check joint motion, swelling, and how you walk. Weight-bearing X-rays show narrowed joint space and bone spurs. An MRI or CT scan may help plan care if the picture is not clear.

Step 2 · Treatment

Supportive shoes with a stiff sole can take stress off the joint. Custom orthotics, braces, and sometimes a rocker-bottom shoe help you move with less pain. Physical therapy keeps nearby muscles strong. Injections may calm flare-ups for a time.

When pain limits daily life despite other care, surgery can clean up the joint, fuse it, or in some ankles replace it. Your surgeon will match the option to the joint and your goals.

Recovery

What to expect over time.

Non-surgical care often brings steady relief over several weeks, though arthritis is ongoing. Surgery recovery is often three to six months, sometimes longer.

When to book

Do not wait it out.

See a podiatrist if joint pain or stiffness lasts more than a few weeks or limits your walking. Come sooner if a joint becomes hot, red, and swollen.

Call 615-220-8788

Related care

More in Foot & Ankle Arthritis & Joint Care.

FAQ

Your questions answered.

Can I still exercise with foot arthritis?

Yes, low-impact choices like cycling or swimming are usually gentler on the joints.

Does arthritis always get worse?

It often progresses slowly, but good shoes and support can reduce symptoms for many years.

Get help with osteoarthritis of the foot and ankle.

Request an appointmentCall 615-220-8788

Where we treat it

Osteoarthritis of the Foot, Ankle, Midfoot & Subtalar Joint care at 15 clinics.

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