Arthritis and Ongoing Foot Pain
Living with ongoing foot pain can affect how far you walk, what you wear and what you enjoy. At Sports and Structural Podiatry in Maroochydore, we look at what is driving your pain and work with you on a plan to help you stay active and comfortable.
What it is
Common causes of ongoing foot pain
Ongoing foot pain has many possible causes, and the right plan depends on yours. Common causes include:
Osteoarthritis
Wear in a joint, most often the big toe joint, the midfoot or the ankle. It usually causes stiffness and pain with activity.
Inflammatory arthritis
Conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, psoriatic arthritis and gout can cause swelling, warmth and pain. We work alongside your GP or rheumatologist.
A stiff big toe joint
Also called hallux rigidus. It can make walking, squatting and pushing off painful, and change how the rest of the foot takes load.
Long-standing tendon pain
Tendon pain around the heel, ankle or arch that has been present for months.
Nerve pain
Burning, tingling or numbness, which can be linked to diabetes or other health conditions.
Pain after injury or surgery
An old ankle sprain, fracture or foot operation that has left the foot stiff or sore.
Signs
Signs it is worth getting checked
- Stiffness first thing in the morning or after sitting
- Swelling or warmth around a joint
- Pain that is changing the way you walk
- Shoes that no longer feel comfortable
- Hard skin or corns building up over a stiff or changed joint
- Giving up walks or activities you enjoy because of your feet
Your first visit
What happens at your assessment
Your first appointment usually covers four things.
01
Your history
When the pain started, what makes it better or worse, your health, medications, activity levels, footwear and any previous treatment.
02
Examination
We examine the joints, muscles, skin and nails, and check the circulation and feeling in your feet where needed.
03
Movement and footwear
We look at how your feet move and take load when you walk, and at the shoes you wear most days.
04
A clear plan
We explain what we found in plain language and agree a plan with you, including what you can keep doing.
Treatment
Treatment options
Podiatry cannot reverse arthritis, but treatment can often help you manage pain and keep doing the things you enjoy. Depending on your assessment, your plan may include:
Footwear advice
Guidance on shoes with the right depth, width and support for your feet.
Custom orthotics
Made from a 3D scan of your feet and an individual prescription, where your assessment shows they are appropriate for you.
Foot mobilisation therapy (FMT)
A hands-on treatment for stiff joints of the foot and ankle, where it is suitable for you.
MLS laser therapy
A non-invasive light treatment used alongside other care for joint pain. Results vary from person to person.
Strength and mobility exercises
Simple exercises to keep the joints moving and the muscles of the foot and leg strong.
Padding and offloading
Pads and toe props to take pressure off sore joints and areas of hard skin.
Skin and nail care
Care for corns, callus and nails, which can become harder to manage with stiff or changed joints.
Working with your health team
Where needed, we refer for imaging and work with your GP, rheumatologist or physiotherapist.
Your podiatrist will talk you through the options, expected benefits and any risks before you decide.
Who you will see
Our podiatrists
All of our podiatrists can help with this. Book with whoever suits your schedule.
Alana Underwood
Principal Podiatrist
B.Hlth.Sc (Pod), M.SportsMed (Hons). Special interest in sports podiatry and biomechanics.
Holly Wilcox
Senior Podiatrist
B.Hlth.Sc (Pod). Special interest in nail and skin care, ingrown toenails, diabetic foot assessments, orthotic therapy and footwear advice.
Hannah Oong
Senior Podiatrist
B.PodMed. Particular interest in treating ingrown toenails and in dry needling.
When to book
Book in if foot pain has lasted more than a few weeks, keeps coming back, or is stopping you from doing things you enjoy.
If a joint suddenly becomes hot, red and swollen, or you feel unwell or have a fever, seek medical care promptly. This is especially important if you have diabetes.
FAQs
Frequently asked questions
Can a podiatrist help with arthritis in my feet?
Yes. Podiatry cannot reverse arthritis, but footwear, orthotics, exercises and other treatments can often help you manage pain and stay active. We work alongside your GP and other health professionals.
Will I need an X-ray?
Not always. Many problems can be assessed from your history and an examination. If imaging is needed, we will explain why and arrange a referral.
Will orthotics help?
For some people, yes. Custom orthotics are only recommended when your assessment shows they are appropriate for you.
Can I use a Medicare care plan?
If your GP decides you are eligible for a Medicare care plan for a chronic condition, you may receive a Medicare rebate for some podiatry visits. Ask your GP whether this applies to you, and bring the referral to your appointment.
Do I need a referral?
No. You can book directly with us. If your GP has referred you, please bring the referral to your appointment.
Can I claim on my health fund?
If your private health insurance includes extras cover for podiatry, you may be able to claim part of the cost. Check with your fund for your level of cover.
Book an assessment
Shop 202, Building 2, Ground Floor, 2 Emporio Place, Maroochydore QLD 4558
Book an AppointmentCall (07) 5479 1211