What Causes Arthritis in the Feet? Signs, Symptoms, and Early Support

Arthritis in the feet is a common condition that can significantly affect mobility, comfort, and quality of life. Because the feet contain more than 30 joints and carry the body’s weight every day, they are particularly vulnerable to joint wear, inflammation, and stiffness over time.

Understanding the causes of foot arthritis, recognising early symptoms, and seeking timely support can help people manage discomfort and maintain long-term function.

A person gently massages their inflamed foot, highlighting the discomfort caused by arthritis.

What Is Arthritis in the Feet?

Foot arthritis refers to inflammation or degeneration of the joints in the foot and ankle. Over time, arthritis can reduce the smooth cartilage that normally allows joints to move freely, leading to pain, swelling, stiffness, and difficulty walking.

Arthritis may affect different parts of the foot, including:

• The toes

• The midfoot

• The ankle joint

• The joints connecting the foot bones

What Causes Arthritis in the Feet?

1. Osteoarthritis (Wear and Tear)

Osteoarthritis is one of the most common forms of foot arthritis. It occurs when the protective cartilage in the joints gradually wears down, often due to:

• Age-related joint changes

• Repetitive stress on the feet

• Previous injuries

• Long-term biomechanical strain

This type is frequently seen in older adults but may also develop earlier in people with high activity levels or past joint trauma.

2. Rheumatoid Arthritis (Autoimmune Condition)

Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune condition where the body’s immune system attacks joint tissue, causing inflammation. It often affects multiple joints, including those in the feet.

Rheumatoid arthritis may lead to:

• Joint swelling

• Deformity over time

• Pain in both feet symmetrically

  
  

Early diagnosis and multidisciplinary care are important for long-term management.

3. Post-Traumatic Arthritis

Foot arthritis can develop after an injury such as:

• Fractures

• Severe sprains

• Joint dislocations

Even after the injury heals, the joint may become less stable or cartilage may deteriorate, increasing the risk of arthritis later on.

4. Gout and Inflammatory Arthritis

Gout is another form of arthritis caused by a build-up of uric acid crystals in the joint. It often affects the big toe joint and may cause sudden episodes of intense pain and swelling.

Other inflammatory arthritic conditions can also contribute to foot joint discomfort.

Common Signs and Symptoms of Arthritic Feet

Foot arthritis symptoms often develop gradually and may worsen over time.

Common signs include:

• Persistent aching or pain in the foot or ankle

• Joint stiffness, especially in the morning

• Swelling around foot joints

• Reduced range of motion

• Pain during walking or standing

• Difficulty wearing certain shoes

• Changes in foot shape in more advanced cases

  
  

If symptoms are ongoing or interfering with daily activity, early assessment can be helpful.

Why Early Support Matters

Early management of arthritis in the feet can help reduce stress on affected joints, improve movement, and support long-term mobility.

While arthritis cannot always be reversed, evidence-based care may assist in:

• Managing discomfort

• Improving joint function

• Supporting independence and activity levels

• Preventing further strain on surrounding structures

How Podiatry Can Help with Foot Arthritis

A podiatrist can assess how arthritis is affecting your joints, gait, and foot mechanics. Support may include:

Footwear Advice

Proper footwear can reduce joint stress and improve comfort.

Orthotics and Insoles

Custom orthotics may help redistribute pressure and improve alignment.

Strength and Mobility Support

Targeted exercises can assist with maintaining foot and ankle function.

Education and Load Management

Understanding how to manage activity levels is key for long-term joint health.

Sydney Allied Health Group takes a multidisciplinary approach, meaning podiatry care can be integrated with physiotherapy and exercise physiology support when appropriate.

When Should You Seek Help?

Consider booking an assessment if you experience:

• Ongoing foot pain lasting more than a few weeks

• Increasing stiffness or swelling

• Difficulty walking or maintaining balance

• Recurrent flare-ups of joint discomfort

• Foot pain affecting daily activities

  
  

You can book an appointment online with our team to discuss personalized support options.

Supporting Foot Health Long Term

Living with arthritis in the feet can be challenging, but with the right guidance, many people continue to move comfortably and maintain independence.

A personalized care plan may include podiatry support, structured exercise, and practical strategies to reduce joint strain over time.

Need Support for Arthritic Foot Pain?

Sydney Allied Health Group provides evidence-based podiatry and multidisciplinary care to help individuals manage foot arthritis, improve mobility, and stay active.