Foot Arthritis 

20 Years of Expert Care at Atlanta Foot Care Center

Foot arthritis is one of the most common causes of chronic foot pain, and with 20 years of podiatric experience, Atlanta Foot Care Center provides the specialized evaluation and treatment needed to help patients stay active, mobile, and comfortable.

Because the foot contains a surprisingly complex network of joints, tendons, and ligaments, arthritis can show up in many different ways. Understanding where your pain is coming from is the first step toward effective treatment.

What Kind of Arthritis Do You Have — and in Which Joint?

Many patients don’t realize just how intricate the foot really is. Your foot contains:

• 33 joints
• 26 bones
• Over 100 tendons, ligaments, and muscles

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Any of these structures can become irritated, inflamed, arthritic, or sprained.

The most commonly affected joints include:

• The big toe joint (hallux rigidus)
• The midfoot joints
• The ankle joint
• The subtalar joint (below the ankle)

Because there are so many joints working together, pinpointing the exact source of pain requires a professional evaluation.

Types of Arthritis That Affect the Foot

Different forms of arthritis behave differently, and each requires a tailored treatment plan. The most common types include:

• Osteoarthritis – Wear‑and‑tear arthritis that develops over time
• Rheumatoid arthritis – An autoimmune condition that attacks the joints
• Gout – Caused by uric acid crystal buildup, often in the big toe
• Post‑traumatic arthritis – Develops after injuries such as sprains or fractures

With two decades of experience, our podiatrist can help determine which type you’re dealing with and how to manage it effectively.

How Many Tendons and Ligaments Can Be Sprained?

A lot more than most people think.

The foot and ankle contain:

• More than 30 ligaments
• Over 20 major tendons

Any of these can become strained, torn, or inflamed — sometimes mimicking arthritis pain. This is why accurate diagnosis is essential. What feels like “arthritis” may actually be:

• A tendon injury
• A ligament sprain
• Joint instability
• A stress injury
• Nerve irritation

Our job is to sort out the difference so you get the right treatment from the start.

Symptoms of Foot Arthritis

Patients often report:

• Joint pain or tenderness
• Stiffness, especially in the morning
• Swelling or warmth around the joint
• Difficulty walking or standing
• Reduced range of motion
• A grinding or clicking sensation

Symptoms may come and go or gradually worsen over time.

How We Diagnose Foot Arthritis

With 20 years of clinical experience, we use a combination of:

• Physical examination
• X‑rays to evaluate joint space and bone changes
• Ultrasound or advanced imaging if needed
• Review of medical history and symptoms

This helps us identify the exact joint involved and the underlying cause of your pain.

Treatment Options at Atlanta Foot Care Center

Conservative Care

• Custom orthotics
• Supportive footwear
• Anti‑inflammatory medications (as recommended by your physician)
• Physical therapy
• Ice therapy
• Activity modification

Advanced Treatments

• Corticosteroid injections
• Bracing or immobilization
• Regenerative therapies (if appropriate)
• Surgical options for severe arthritis

Your treatment plan is always personalized — never one‑size‑fits‑all.