Osteoarthritis, also called degenerative arthritis, is a progressive condition in which the cartilage that cushions and protects the ends of bones within a joint gradually wears down. It is the most common form of arthritis, affecting millions of Americans, and in the foot and ankle it most often develops in the big toe joint, the midfoot, and the ankle itself.
As cartilage thins, the joint loses its smooth, cushioned surface, and in more advanced cases the bones can begin to rub directly against each other. This process typically develops gradually over years, though it can also follow a specific injury. Because joint pain can have several causes, our rheumatoid arthritis page can help you understand how an inflammatory form of arthritis differs from osteoarthritis.
The most common symptoms are pain and stiffness in the affected joint, which often worsen with activity and improve somewhat with rest. Common signs include:
- Pain and stiffness in the big toe, midfoot, or ankle joint
- Swelling around the affected joint
- Difficulty walking or a change in your normal gait
- Reduced range of motion in the joint
- Bone spurs that develop near the joint, which can cause pain at the spur site or further limit movement
Osteoarthritis develops through repeated stress on a joint over time, which gradually thins the cartilage and can eventually allow the bones to rub together. Several factors contribute to this process:
- Previous injuries to the foot or ankle, which can lead to arthritis months or even years later
- Abnormal foot mechanics — flat feet can create ligament instability, while high arches can cause joint jamming, both of which add stress to the joints
- Direct trauma, such as dropping a heavy object on the foot or jamming a toe
- Age and cumulative wear on the joints over a lifetime
Because abnormal foot mechanics are a common contributor, conditions like flat feet and hallux rigidus (big toe joint arthritis) are frequently connected to broader arthritic changes in the foot.
We diagnose arthritis with a physical examination that checks the affected joint for swelling, limited mobility, and pain during movement, combined with a review of your symptoms and any prior injuries. X-rays are commonly ordered to assess how much cartilage has been lost and how severe the joint changes are.
An accurate diagnosis helps determine the best starting point for treatment and whether the arthritis is isolated to one joint or affecting the foot and ankle more broadly.
Most people manage foot and ankle arthritis successfully with nonsurgical care, especially in the earlier stages. We tailor a plan based on which joint is affected and how much it is limiting your daily activity.
Nonsurgical treatment
- Oral anti-inflammatory medications, such as NSAIDs like ibuprofen, to reduce pain and swelling
- Custom orthotic shoe inserts to redistribute pressure away from the affected joint — see our custom orthotics options
- Bracing or immobilization to limit painful joint motion
- Steroid injections for more focused, stubborn pain
- Physical therapy to maintain strength and range of motion around the joint
Surgery
Surgery may be recommended when arthritis has progressed significantly or has not responded to conservative treatment. Surgical options vary depending on the joint involved and can range from removing bone spurs to joint fusion or replacement. Our physicians will discuss the option that best fits your specific joint and activity goals.
What is recovery and long-term management like?
Because osteoarthritis is a progressive, chronic condition, treatment is generally focused on managing symptoms and slowing further joint stress rather than reversing existing damage. Consistent use of supportive footwear or orthotics, staying at a healthy activity level, and following through with physical therapy all help protect the joint over the long term.
If surgery becomes necessary, recovery timelines and rehabilitation depend heavily on which procedure is performed, and we will provide detailed, personalized guidance for your specific situation.
When should you see a podiatrist for joint pain?
See a podiatrist if joint pain or stiffness in your foot or ankle lasts more than a few weeks, is limiting your activity, or is getting worse over time. Early evaluation allows treatment to begin before the joint sustains further damage.
Seek care sooner if you notice significant swelling, an inability to bear weight, or joint pain following a specific injury. When you are ready, you can request an appointment at either of our Northern Utah offices.
Wasatch Foot & Ankle Institute is a locally rooted podiatry practice serving Farmington, South Ogden, and the surrounding Davis and Weber County communities. Our board-certified, fellowship-trained physicians focus exclusively on the foot and ankle, from early joint stiffness to advanced reconstructive care.
That focus lets us offer the full range of arthritis management under one roof — from custom orthotics and injections to joint-preserving and reconstructive surgery — so your care can advance without a referral elsewhere. We treat patients from both of our clinics; learn more about our Farmington and South Ogden locations or call the office nearest you.
Medically reviewed by the physicians at Wasatch Foot & Ankle Institute. Our board-certified, fellowship-trained podiatrists provide foot and ankle care in Farmington and South Ogden, Utah. This page is for general education and is not a substitute for an in-person evaluation.
