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Osteoarthritis foot treatment Cairns is available at FNQ Podiatry and Orthotics. Osteoarthritis (OA) refers to the breakdown, and eventual loss, of the protective cartilage within a joint. The integrity of this connective tissue is vital, to protect and cushion the opposing bones from damage by normal forces during movement. Osteoarthritis can present in any joint within the body, however, some joints are more commonly affected than others, including the feet. There are 26 bones and 33 joints within each foot, with every one of these subjected to significant amounts force and stress on a daily basis. In fact, whilst running, the equivalent force of 3 times your body weight gets put through each foot, every step.
The most common joint in the foot to become arthritic is the big toe joint, followed closely by the joints which make up the midfoot and the ankle joint. There are several different causes of Osteoarthritis in the feet, the most common being general wear and tear. The degree of ‘normal’ wear and tear is however exacerbated in individuals who have abnormal foot and lower limb biomechanics, such as an over pronated (flat) foot, a supinated (high arch) foot or joint hypermobility. In addition to mechanical changes, previous injuries may also lead to osteoarthritis. This will not present straight away and often takes months to years for the condition to develop within the damaged joint. Our team are trained and experienced, at providing professional Osteoarthritis foot treatment Cairns.
The symptoms of Osteoarthritis in the feet varies from individual to individual. This is usually due to the severity and location of the condition. The more progressed the arthritis, the more symptoms an individual will likely experience. The main symptoms include;
Cairns Osteoarthritis foot treatment always begins with a non-surgical approach. Aimed to reduce pain and alter abnormal mechanics, to offload the affected joint/s. They include the following.
Minimize aggravating activities, switching high impact exercise for lower impact activities and weight loss to reduce joint stress.
Gentle range of motion exercises and strength exercises are important in maintaining the current range of motion available, maximizing the effectiveness of the muscles which stabilize around the affected joint. We can use our Cairns VALD Strength Testing to assist with assessing the specific focus points to prioritise in conjunction with this.
Oral medication such and non-steroidal anti-inflammatories can be used to help pain and swelling. Cortisone injections may also be considered to help with pain levels.
Orthotics play a significant role in the acute treatment (pain relief) and long-term progression of osteoarthritis. When abnormal foot posture or biomechanics are identified as a risk factor, an orthotic can be designed to specifically alter how much force is being directed at a particular joint. As well as re-directing forces, we’re also able to support and cushion the already affected joints, to minimize discomfort during activity and reduce the chances of further damage. At FNQ Podiatry and Orthotics we make and fit custom orthotics, as a part of our Osteoarthritis foot treatment Cairns.
Surgical treatment may be recommended if your pain causes disability and is not minimized by the above non-surgical options. Surgical intervention generally involves debridement of the rough cartilage and removal of any bony spurs. As complete last resort, a surgical fusion may be indicated where the affected joint is fused, turning two bones into one and therefore stopping all movement within the arthritic joint. Our clinics provide effective Cairns Osteoarthritis foot treatment, for a range of patients. So, if you, or someone you know suffers from joint stiffness and pain within their feet, call our friendly reception staff today to book your initial consultation with one of our podiatrists.
Flat feet and lower limb biomechanics can cause lower back pain. We can help with a range of effective treatment options.
If you have knee pain, you might have Patellofemoral syndrome, which left untreated can become a chronic condition.
Active individuals often get shin splints. We can help with custom orthotics, massage and strapping.
Heel pain (Plantar Fasciitis) is the most common condition that presents at our clinics. We can help.
The average pair of feet walk approximately 200,000 km over the course of a lifetime - have you had yours checked recently?
Our new modern, purpose built clinic on Mulgrave Road in Earlville, is the only podiatry clinic north of south-east Queensland to include a running rehab room and gym. This clinic is a game changer for podiatry in North Queensland. Podiatrist Cairns.
