Osteoarthritis (OA) is the most common form of arthritis, affecting millions of people in the UK. It is a degenerative joint condition in which the cartilage cushioning the ends of bones gradually breaks down, leading to pain, stiffness, swelling, and reduced joint mobility. In the feet and ankles, OA most commonly affects the big toe joint (hallux rigidus), the midfoot, and the ankle joint itself.
While there is no cure for osteoarthritis, podiatric management can significantly reduce pain, improve function, and slow the progression of the condition. At Deal Podiatry in Deal, Kent, we provide evidence-based, personalised care for patients with foot and ankle osteoarthritis.
How Osteoarthritis Affects the Feet
Hallux rigidus (big toe OA) – Stiffness and pain in the big toe joint, making push-off during walking very painful.
Midfoot OA – Affects the joints in the middle of the foot, causing arch pain and difficulty with footwear.
Ankle OA – Often following previous injury (post-traumatic OA), causing pain, stiffness, and reduced movement.
Lesser toe joints – Can cause deformities, and painful, stiff joints in the smaller toes.
Symptoms
Joint pain – Aching or sharp pain, particularly during or after weight-bearing activity.
Morning stiffness – Joints that feel stiff for the first 30 minutes of the day or after rest.
Swelling – Around the affected joint, especially after prolonged activity.
Reduced range of motion – Difficulty bending or flexing the joint fully.
Grating sensation – Crepitus - a grinding or crunching feeling when moving the joint.
Podiatry Treatment for Osteoarthritis
Orthotic therapy – Custom or prefabricated insoles offload painful joints, support the arch, and redistribute plantar pressure.
Footwear advice – Appropriate footwear can significantly reduce OA pain. Rocker-sole shoes reduce stress on the forefoot and big toe joint.
Accommodative padding – Silicone or felt padding reduces direct pressure on painful joints and bony prominences.
Activity modification – Guidance on how to stay active while protecting affected joints.
Callus & nail management – OA-related gait changes can cause problematic callus and nail conditions that require regular professional care.
Referral – Where appropriate, referral to physiotherapy, rheumatology, or orthopaedics for further assessment or interventions such as joint injection or surgery.
Living With Osteoarthritis
Keep active – Low-impact exercise such as swimming, cycling, and walking helps maintain joint mobility.
Maintain a healthy weight – Reducing load through the joints slows progression and decreases pain.
Appropriate footwear – Supportive shoes protect and offload arthritic joints throughout the day.
Heat and cold therapy – Heat before activity improves flexibility; ice after relieves inflammation.
Related Treatments at Deal Podiatry
Our chiropodist and podiatry team in Deal, Kent can help manage osteoarthritis symptoms with the following treatments:
Manage Your Osteoarthritis at Deal Podiatry
You don't have to simply put up with arthritic foot pain. Our experienced podiatrists at Deal Podiatry in Deal, Kent can help you reduce pain, stay active, and protect your joints for the long term.