Arthritis Foot and Ankle Treatment Clinic in Scottsdale, AZ

At Arizona Foot and Ankle Physicians, we specialize in diagnosing and treating arthritis affecting the foot and ankle. Arthritis in these areas involves inflammation and degeneration of the joints—most commonly in the big toe, midfoot, or ankle itself. With 30 joints in the foot and ankle, arthritis can significantly impact your mobility and quality of life.
 
Our experienced physicians understand that arthritis causes the protective cartilage in your joints to wear down, leading to pain, swelling, stiffness, and reduced range of motion. The most common forms we see at our practice include:

• Osteoarthritis: Due to natural wear and tear over time
• Rheumatoid Arthritis: An autoimmune condition affecting the joint lining
• Post-Traumatic Arthritis: Often develops after injuries such as fractures or severe sprains
 
Symptoms may appear gradually or suddenly, and are often worsened by activities like standing, walking, or running. Our team uses a comprehensive approach to diagnosis, including a detailed medical history, physical examination, and advanced imaging like X-rays.
 
Early recognition and expert management are essential to controlling symptoms and preserving joint function. Our tailored treatment plans focus on relieving pain, improving mobility, and enhancing your overall quality of life. If you’re experiencing persistent foot or ankle discomfort, schedule an appointment with Arizona Foot and Ankle Physicians to receive specialized care and get back on your feet.

Arthritis in the foot and ankle can significantly affect your quality of life, and at Arizona Foot and Ankle Physicians, we understand the impact it can have. The condition often develops gradually, with symptoms that can worsen over time. Below are the most common signs of arthritis in the foot and ankle:

• Persistent pain or tenderness: One of the earliest signs, pain in the joints may increase with activity or after periods of rest.
• Stiffness: Particularly noticeable in the morning or after sitting for a while, stiffness can make movement difficult and limit mobility.
• Swelling, warmth, or redness: These are signs of inflammation around the joints, which can indicate the presence of arthritis.
• Reduced range of motion: This can make daily activities, such as walking, climbing stairs, or standing for extended periods, more challenging.
• Changes in joint shape: Over time, arthritis can cause deformities like bunions, hammertoes, or visible shifts in joint alignment.
• Grinding or popping sensations: These are common as the cartilage in the joint wears down, and may become more pronounced as arthritis progresses.
• Painful walking and limping: In severe cases, walking can become increasingly painful, potentially requiring the use of supportive devices.

If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, especially if they interfere with your daily routine, we encourage you to schedule an appointment. Early evaluation and specialized treatment can help manage pain, preserve joint function, and improve mobility.

Several types of arthritis can affect the foot and ankle, leading to pain, stiffness, swelling, and difficulty walking. Our team of board-certified podiatrists specializes in diagnosing and treating the full spectrum of arthritic conditions that affect the feet and ankles. Common types of arthritis we treat:

• Osteoarthritis: A common form of arthritis that typically results from wear and tear over time, often affecting the big toe, midfoot, and ankle. It is more common in older adults or individuals with previous joint injuries. Treatment options focus on reducing pain and improving mobility.
• Rheumatoid Arthritis: An autoimmune disorder that can affect multiple joints, including those in the feet and ankles. It causes inflammation in the joint lining, leading to pain, swelling, and potential joint deformity if not addressed early. Early intervention is key to preserving joint function and preventing progression.
• Post-Traumatic Arthritis: Occurs after a joint injury, such as a fracture or severe sprain. Symptoms may appear years later, and joint degeneration can happen over time. Advanced imaging and treatment are essential for managing joint function and restoring mobility.
• Gout: An inflammatory type of arthritis caused by a buildup of uric acid crystals, often affecting the big toe joint. Diagnosis and effective management are critical to controlling flare-ups and preventing future episodes.
• Psoriatic Arthritis: Linked to psoriasis, this condition affects the joints of the toes and can cause swelling, sometimes affecting the entire toe. Comprehensive care addresses both the joints and skin aspects of the condition.
• Ankylosing Spondylitis: While primarily affecting the spine, this condition can also cause inflammation in the feet and ankles. Targeted therapies help manage symptoms and maintain mobility.
 
Early diagnosis and individualized treatment are essential to maintaining joint health and minimizing discomfort. If you are experiencing foot or ankle pain, stiffness, or swelling, contact us today to schedule a comprehensive evaluation. Let our experienced team help you get back on your feet and back to your active lifestyle.

Arthritis in the foot and ankle is diagnosed through a combination of patient history, physical examination, and diagnostic imaging. The process typically starts with a detailed consultation where your healthcare provider will ask about your symptoms, medical history, and any prior injuries. This helps them understand the nature of your pain and its impact on your daily activities.

During the physical examination, your provider will assess the range of motion, swelling, and tenderness in the affected joints. They may also check for signs of deformities or inflammation. Based on the findings, diagnostic imaging such as X-rays, MRIs, or CT scans may be ordered to visualize the joint structures and assess the degree of cartilage wear, bone spurs, or joint misalignment.

Additional tests, such as blood work or joint fluid analysis, might be recommended in cases of suspected rheumatoid arthritis or gout. Early and accurate diagnosis is crucial in developing an effective treatment plan to manage pain, improve mobility, and prevent further joint damage.

Key diagnostic steps:

• Patient history and symptom review
• Physical examination of joint mobility, swelling, and tenderness
• Diagnostic imaging (X-rays, MRIs, CT scans)
• Blood tests or joint fluid analysis (if necessary)
• Assessment of joint deformities or inflammation

If you are experiencing persistent foot or ankle pain, schedule an appointment with Arizona Foot and Ankle Physicians today—your first step toward relief starts here. For more information, contact us or request an appointment online. We are conveniently located at 11390 E. Via Linda, Ste 102, Scottsdale, AZ 85259. We serve patients from Scottsdale AZ, Fountain Hills AZ, Paradise Valley AZ, Carefree AZ, Rio Verde AZ, and surrounding areas.