A large portion of the population in Georgia end up with some form of arthritis of the foot or ankle. There are some people who will even have different symptoms depending on changes in the weather!
Arthritis (or osteoarthritis) occurs when the cartilage (the soft lining of the joint) begins to wear down and cause problems. The purpose of cartilage is to provide cushioning, so that the bones of the joint do not hit each other and cause swelling and pain. Foot and ankle arthritis can be especially painful, as we have to use our feet to get around! When the cartilage deteriorates and the bones of our feet starting rubbing on each other, new painful spurs can form.
Degeneration or arthritis of the foot is usually caused by breaking down of the cartilage and joint slowly over time. There are also instance where a sports injury or other foot injury can cause a breakdown of the cartilage, and lead to arthritis of a joint of the foot. Ankle fractures can also results in arthritis of the ankle later in life. Flat feet (pes planus) and high arches (pes cavus) can cause abnormal wear on joints and lead to arthritis as well. Ligamentous laxity (increased range of motion at joints) can be an attributing cause as well.
