How Arthritis Can Lead to Foot Problems Over Time

Arthritis is often thought of as a disease that only affects the hands or knees. But for many people, the feet are where the pain begins — or where it becomes most disruptive. Because our feet carry the weight of every step, arthritis here can quietly affect balance, mobility, and quality of life over time.

At Thrive Foot and Ankle, we see how arthritis creates unique challenges in the feet. Understanding the connection is the first step toward managing symptoms and staying active.

Why Arthritis Affects the Feet

The feet are made up of more than 30 joints, each one cushioned by cartilage and supported by ligaments and tendons. When arthritis wears away that cartilage, bones grind against each other. This friction causes pain, swelling, and stiffness.

Arthritis in the feet often shows up in three areas:

• The big toe joint, which is crucial for walking and pushing off.

• The midfoot joints, where the arch bears weight.

• The ankle joint, which controls movement and stability.

Common Arthritis Foot Problems

Big Toe Pain and Stiffness

One of the earliest signs of arthritis in the foot is pain in the big toe joint, sometimes called hallux rigidus. Over time, stiffness can make it difficult to bend the toe, and walking becomes uncomfortable.

Midfoot Collapse

When arthritis affects the middle of the foot, the arch may flatten. This leads to pain when standing or walking and makes shoes fit poorly.

Ankle Instability

Arthritis in the ankle joint reduces motion and creates swelling. Some people notice that uneven ground feels harder to navigate, raising the risk of falls.

Secondary Problems

Because arthritis changes how you walk, it often causes new problems — calluses, bunions, or even back and knee pain — as your body tries to compensate.

Signs It’s More Than Just Sore Feet

It’s easy to write off arthritis pain as “just getting older,” but certain signs mean it’s time to pay attention:

• Persistent stiffness in the morning

• Swelling around one or more joints in the feet

• Pain that worsens with activity but doesn’t fully go away with rest

• Visible changes, like enlarged joints or toes drifting out of place

When these symptoms interfere with daily life, ignoring them only allows the condition to progress.

Living With Arthritis Foot Problems

While there’s no cure for arthritis, there are many ways to manage its effects and keep moving:

• Footwear adjustments: Shoes with supportive soles and roomy toe boxes reduce pressure.

• Orthotics: Custom inserts can improve alignment and absorb shock.

• Activity modification: Low-impact exercise like swimming or cycling helps maintain mobility without overloading the joints.

• Medications or injections: Anti-inflammatory treatments reduce pain and swelling.

• Physical therapy: Stretching and strengthening exercises help maintain function.

In advanced cases, surgical options may be considered to relieve pain and restore movement.

Why Early Care Matters

Arthritis foot problems don’t appear overnight — they build slowly over time. The sooner you seek care, the easier it is to slow the progression and protect your mobility. Early intervention means more treatment options and a greater chance of staying active.

At Thrive Foot and Ankle, we work with patients to create personalized plans that address both pain and long-term joint health.

The Bottom Line

Arthritis may be common, but living with constant foot pain doesn’t have to be. By recognizing how arthritis affects the feet and taking action early, you can protect your mobility and independence for years to come.

👉 Book an appointment online today with Thrive Foot and Ankle to take the first step toward more comfortable movement.