Causes Of Arthritis

The Real Pain of Arthritis

Canada Day will be here before you know it, with fun and activities galore! From dancing to music and walking around taking in exhibits, to standing at attention for the annual fireworks display, changing of the guards, and flag raising ceremony—with all the events going on, we can hardly wait! If you have arthritis in your feet or ankles, though, dancing and walking and standing aren’t all that exciting—in fact they can be downright painful! So why do some people suffer from this condition?

The causes of arthritis depend on the type, and while there are a wide variety, there are three common kinds that affect your feet and ankles. Osteoarthritis is caused by wear and tear over time. As you age the cartilage between your joints breaks down and leads to pain and inflammation. Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disease in which your body produces cells that attack your joints resulting in swelling, pain, and stiffness. Post traumatic arthritis affects joints that have been damaged by injury.

Partner with Us to Manage your Arthritis Pain

No matter the causes of joint pain, the good news is that you can manage your condition and live a full and active life—so you can look forward to things like Canada Day celebrations! Pain laser treatments, anti-inflammatory medications or injections, synovial fluid replacement using sodium hyaluronate solutions (Synvisc or Neovisc), compressive socks, ankle and foot supports and orthotics are all ways to minimize symptoms. Wearing shoes that match the shape of your foot, and that are supportive yet flexible, will go a long way toward alleviating discomfort. Stretches and low-impact exercise will help to keep you moving which, believe it or not, relieves pain and stiffness. If all else fails, surgery is an option as well.

If you have questions about the causes of arthritis, or would like more tips on how you can manage your condition, call our foot specialists at (613) 595-9700, or visit Ottawa Foot Practice in Ottawa, ON, Canada today. That way you’ll be ready to enjoy all that Canada Day has to offer!