Arthritis in Your Feet? Here’s How to Walk Without Pain

When Every Step Hurts, It’s Time to Rethink Foot Care

Arthritis doesn’t just affect the hands, knees, or hips. For many adults, the pain starts in an unexpected place, their feet. In fact, each foot has 33 joints, and any one of them can become inflamed, stiff, or damaged over time.

If you’re dealing with achy feet, swollen toes, or stiff ankles, you’re not alone. During National Arthritis Awareness Month, we’re spotlighting ways to reduce foot pain and keep you moving comfortably, whether you're walking your dog, strolling through City Place, Atlantic Ave, or playing a few rounds of golf.

What Does Foot Arthritis Feel Like?

Symptoms can vary, but many patients describe:

• Aching or throbbing in the midfoot or big toe joint
• Pain that worsens after activity or in the morning
• Stiffness or reduced flexibility in the feet or ankles
• Visible swelling or joint deformities
• Difficulty finding shoes that feel good

The most common types affecting the feet are:

• Osteoarthritis: Wear-and-tear arthritis, especially in the big toe (hallux limitus/rigidus)
• Rheumatoid arthritis: An autoimmune condition that often affects both feet symmetrically
• Post-traumatic arthritis: Follows injuries like ankle sprains or fractures

How Arthritis Affects Walking

When the joints in your feet don’t glide properly, every step can feel uncomfortable. Over time, many people change how they walk, leading to imbalance, fatigue, knee or back pain, and even increased fall risk.

That’s why treating foot arthritis isn’t just about comfort, it’s about preserving your mobility and independence.

Pain-Free Walking Starts with Smart Foot Choices

Here’s how to manage arthritis-related foot pain:

1. Choose the Right Shoes

Look for:

• A stiff sole to limit painful joint motion
• Rocker-bottom soles (great for big toe arthritis)
• Extra depth for swollen or misshaped joints
• A wide toe box

Avoid high heels, flat flip-flops, or worn-out sneakers.

2. Use Custom Orthotics

Custom orthotics can:

• Offload pressure from painful joints
• Realign your foot structure
• Prevent worsening deformities

Our office uses digital scanning to create orthotics tailored specifically to your feet.

3. Reduce Inflammation

We offer multiple options, including:

• Topical anti-inflammatory creams
• Steroid injections for temporary relief
• Laser therapy to promote healing and reduce swelling
• Oral medications or referrals to a rheumatologist if systemic care is needed

4. Keep Joints Moving Safely

Gentle stretching and non-impact exercises (like water aerobics) can maintain mobility. We can recommend a personalized plan based on your condition.

When Is Surgery an Option?

If conservative treatments don’t provide relief, minimally invasive surgery may be an option. Our team at Signature Foot & Ankle specializes in procedures that:

• Remove bone spurs
• Improve joint alignment
• Fuse severely damaged joints for long-term relief

We’ll walk you through every option to ensure you get the care that matches your lifestyle and goals.

Don’t Let Arthritis Keep You From Moving

We help Palm Beach residents walk farther, feel better, and stay active, even with foot arthritis. If you’re tired of limping through life, it’s time to let us help.

Call (561) 203-9285 or book online or contact us today for a foot arthritis consultation.