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Ankle pain, swelling, and stiffness can point to several forms of arthritis, making an accurate diagnosis important. Osteoarthritis, or OA, develops when the smooth cartilage that cushions the ankle joint breaks down. Rheumatoid arthritis, or RA, occurs when the immune system mistakenly attacks healthy joints, often affecting both ankles. Gout develops when sharp uric acid crystals collect in a joint, causing sudden, intense pain. Other conditions that affect the ankles include reactive arthritis, lupus, psoriatic arthritis, and juvenile arthritis. Because ankle pain also comes from problems like sprains, fractures, or Achilles tendon inflammation, a careful assessment is essential. A chiropodist can examine your feet and ankles and evaluate how you stand and walk. They can recommend custom orthotics to improve joint support and work with your healthcare team to help manage symptoms. Early diagnosis helps protect joint function and supports better mobility. If you have symptoms of arthritis in the ankles, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a chiropodist for effective relief and management tips. 

Osteoarthritis in the feet or ankles can be a painful and disabling condition that may interfere with your daily activities. If you have arthritis, please consult with one of the specialists from Thornhill Foot Clinic. Our chiropodists will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment. 

What Is Osteoarthritis? 

Osteoarthritis is a condition in which the protective layer of cartilage in the joints breaks down over time. This loss of cartilage causes the bones to rub together during movement, leading to pain and inflammation. Osteoarthritis is associated with aging, and often affects the small joints of the feet and ankles. 

Symptoms

Symptoms of osteoarthritis include: 

• Joint pain
• Joint stiffness
• Swelling in or around the joint
• Restricted range of motion
• Difficulty walking

Diagnosis

Osteoarthritis can be diagnosed through physical examination. You may also need to have an X-ray taken to assess the extent of the damage caused by arthritis. 

Treatment

Treatment for osteoarthritis focuses on reducing symptoms and improving the function of the affected joints. Conservative treatments include oral pain medications, orthotic devices, bracing or immobilizing the affected foot or ankle, steroid injections into the affected joint to reduce inflammation, and physical therapy. In more severe cases, surgery may be necessary. 

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Vaughan, ON . 

Foot problems in summer are common as activity levels rise and footwear choices change. After a less-active winter, the feet may not be prepared for longer walks, outdoor exercise, and extended standing. Walking barefoot or wearing flip-flops can place strain on the muscles and ligaments, leading to discomfort and instability. Symptoms may include arch pain, heel soreness, and fatigue in the feet. Some individuals may notice tenderness after walking on a hard surface or increased activity. Blisters and skin irritation can also develop with improper footwear. Risk factors include sudden increases in activity, lack of foot strength, and wearing shoes that lack support. Flip-flops and barefoot walking provide minimal support and may increase stress on the foot. Changes in terrain and prolonged standing can further contribute to strain. Preparation involves strengthening the foot muscles through simple exercises and gradually increasing activity levels. Wearing supportive, well-fitted shoes can help protect the feet and improve comfort. If foot problems due to summer activity occur, it is suggested that you consult a chiropodist for effective relief and treatment solutions.

Fall is a time of increased outdoor activities, sports, and back-to-school events. It can also be a time of increased foot and ankle problems. For all of your autumn foot care needs, please consult with one of the specialists from Thornhill Foot Clinic. Our chiropodists can help you maintain the health of your lower limbs and your mobility. 

Common foot and ankle problems that can arise during the fall season include:

• Bunions - Bony growths on the outsides of the big toe joints
• Hammertoes - Toe deformity that causes the toe to bend downward at the middle joint
• Plantar fasciitis - Inflammation of the ligament that runs along the bottom of the foot
• Achilles tendonitis - Inflammation of the tendon that runs along the back of the calf
• Sever’s disease - Injury to the growth plates of the heel bones, common in children and teens
• Metatarsalgia - General foot pain
• Blisters - Skin lesions usually caused by friction over an area of skin
• Sesamoiditis - Injury to the tiny, pea-shaped bones located just beneath the big toe 

Many of these conditions are associated with increases in physical activity of the change from wearing flimsy summer shoes to more sturdy fall shoes. If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Vaughan, ON . 

Flat feet, also known as fallen arches, occur when the arch of the foot collapses, and the entire sole makes contact with the ground. This condition can affect alignment and balance, placing extra strain on the ankles and lower legs. Flat feet may be present from childhood or develop due to changes in the body. Symptoms often include aching in the arch or heel, swelling along the inside of the ankle, and fatigue after standing or walking. Some individuals may notice that their ankles roll inward, which can affect stability. This inward motion may increase the risk of further injury. Common causes include obesity, aging, and conditions such as diabetes and rheumatoid arthritis. These factors can weaken the structures that support the arch. Prolonged standing and improper footwear may also contribute to the effect of flat feet. Management includes supportive footwear, custom orthotics, and strengthening exercises to improve foot stability. Early care can help reduce discomfort and prevent complications. If painful or aching flat feet are a concern, it is suggested that you consult a chiropodist for effective relief solutions.

Flat feet are a common foot condition. If you are experiencing pain or discomfort due to flat feet, please consult with one of the specialists from Thornhill Foot Clinic. Our chiropodists will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment. 

What Are Flat Feet? 

Flat feet are feet that do not have a well-defined arch in the middle of the sole of the foot. Flat feet may be flexible or rigid. Flexible flat feet have an arch when there is no pressure put on the foot, such as when one is sitting, but the arch disappears upon standing. Rigid flat feet lack an arch regardless of whether one is standing or not. 

Causes

Flat feet can be present from birth or acquired over time due to a weakening of the ligaments in the arch. Sometimes flat feet are caused by illnesses, injuries, or pregnancy. 

Symptoms

Flat feet often cause no noticeable symptoms. However, some people may experience pain and discomfort due to their flat feet. 

Symptoms associated with flat feet include:

• Pain in the arch, heel, ankle, or along the outside of the foot
• Overpronation of the foot
• Shin splints
• Aching or fatigue in the feet or legs
• Pain in the knees, hips, or lower back

Treatment 

In cases where flat feet cause symptoms, there are various treatments available. Wearing orthotic inserts in your shoes to provide more arch support, performing stretches, and taking medications may improve your symptoms. If you are overweight, losing weight can help relieve pressure on the feet. In severe cases, surgery may be considered. 

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Vaughan, ON .