Your foot is a complex structure that includes 26 bones and 33 separate joints. Even in people without OA, foot pain is often difficult to avoid due to the large weight-bearing load placed on the feet. Foot pain in OA is not an unusual symptom. As in the hips, knees, and fingers, OA may affect the cartilage of any or all of the small joints in the feet, resulting in pain and limitation of function.
After many years, small fragments of cartilage can come loose and float inside the joints of the foot, which in turn can worsen pain and inflammation. Eventually, the cartilage can erode completely away, so that the bones begin to rub together.
The symptoms of OA of the foot are insidious. They can begin slowly, such that the person experiences minor pain and swelling after extended periods of standing or walking. As the disease progresses and the cartilage wears out, the pain can become intense and seriously impair a person's mobility.
Rheumatologists and orthopedists often suggest that patients with OA of the foot wear sneakers. The insole of a sneaker is made of soft, shock-absorbent material. This kind of padding can cushion the impact associated with walking and help to preserve the knee and foot joints.
Orthotics are devices that fit into shoes and correct foot-related problems. Like sneakers, they can absorb shocks and redistribute pressure so that foot joints are less painful. Inshoe orthotics can be fashioned with a lateral wedge. This wedge, which is made of a firm but flexible material, can help to align the knee joint and take pressure off the medial (inside) portion of the knee joint.
If you have foot or knee pain, in-shoe orthotics may ease your pain and decrease the stress on your joints. Unfortunately, people with diabetes, poor circulation, or swelling can have problems when using orthotics. Your rheumatologist, orthopedist, or podiatrist can evaluate you and determine whether you might benefit from an orthotic.
I am just starting to experience foot pain. It seems to be very bad upon waking and for several minutes after then goes away. Inserts have been recommended but have not tried them yet.