Foot and Ankle Medicine and Surgery
Christopher Chow DPM FACFAS | Susan Zhao DPM | Jack Yuan DPM
Foot And Ankle Arthritis Treatment in Manhattan, NY
Living with arthritis in your feet and ankles can be a real challenge. Whether it’s the stiffness when you first wake up or the sharp pain that stops you from doing the activities you love, it can feel like your mobility is slipping away. The good news is, you don’t have to live with that pain forever. As podiatrists in Manhattan, NY, we specialize in diagnosing and treating foot and ankle arthritis to help you get back on your feet—literally.
We offer a range of effective, personalized treatments designed to relieve your symptoms and improve your quality of life. Whether your arthritis is just beginning, or you’ve been living with it for years, we’re here to help you find the relief you need. Let’s walk through the options together so you can make the best decision for your health.
What Is
Foot and Ankle Arthritis?
Foot and ankle arthritis happens when the cartilage in the joints wears down, causing pain, swelling, and stiffness. Your feet are made up of dozens of bones and joints that work together to help you walk, stand, and move. Over time, those joints can become inflamed or damaged, leading to arthritis. The most common types of arthritis in the foot and ankle are osteoarthritis, which is often related to aging and wear-and-tear, and rheumatoid arthritis, an autoimmune condition that can affect joints throughout the body.
While arthritis in the feet and ankles can be frustrating, the key is early diagnosis and proper treatment. With the right care, it’s possible to manage the symptoms and maintain an active lifestyle. Our goal is to help you understand your condition and explore the best treatment options for you.
Arthritis
Common Symptoms of
Arthritis in the foot and ankle can present in various ways, but the most common symptoms include:
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Pain and Tenderness: You might feel discomfort in the affected joint, especially after standing for long periods or engaging in physical activities.
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Stiffness: Many people notice that their feet feel stiff in the morning or after sitting for a while. This stiffness can make it difficult to walk or move comfortably.
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Swelling: Inflammation can cause swelling around the joints, making your shoes feel tighter or causing visible puffiness.
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Limited Range of Motion: Over time, arthritis can reduce your ability to move the affected joint, making everyday tasks more difficult.
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Grinding Sensation: Some people report a grinding or popping feeling in the joints, which occurs when cartilage has worn down significantly.
If these symptoms sound familiar, you’re not alone—and there are treatments that can help. Recognizing the early signs of foot and ankle arthritis is the first step toward finding relief.
Causes and Triggers Of Foot Arthritis
Foot arthritis doesn’t happen overnight. There are several factors that can contribute to the development of arthritis in the feet and ankles:
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Age: As we get older, the wear and tear on our joints increases, making osteoarthritis more likely. Cartilage naturally breaks down over time, leading to joint pain and stiffness.
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Previous Injuries: If you’ve had a sprain, fracture, or other injury to your foot or ankle, it can increase your chances of developing arthritis in that joint later in life.
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Genetics: If arthritis runs in your family, you may be more likely to experience it yourself.
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Obesity: Carrying extra weight puts additional pressure on your foot and ankle joints, which can accelerate wear and tear.
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Inflammatory Conditions: Conditions like rheumatoid arthritis are autoimmune disorders, where the body’s immune system attacks the joints, causing pain and inflammation.
Certain activities can also trigger arthritis symptoms or make them worse. High-impact exercises, improper footwear, or standing for long periods of time can aggravate your condition. Understanding what’s causing or triggering your arthritis can help us develop a personalized treatment plan that works best for you.
Non-Surgical Treatment Options For
Foot And Ankle Arthritis
When it comes to treating foot and ankle arthritis, surgery is rarely the first option. In most cases, there are several effective non-surgical treatments that can help manage your symptoms and improve your mobility:
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Physical Therapy: Specific exercises can help strengthen the muscles around your joints, improve your range of motion, and reduce pain. Physical therapy is a great way to keep your joints flexible and strong.
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Custom Orthotics: Wearing shoes with good support or custom orthotic inserts can help relieve the pressure on your affected joints, making walking and standing less painful.
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Medications: Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help manage pain and reduce inflammation. In some cases, stronger prescription medications may be recommended.
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Corticosteroid Injections: For more severe cases, we may suggest corticosteroid injections directly into the joint. These injections can provide relief from pain and inflammation for several months.
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Lifestyle Changes: Sometimes small changes, like wearing more supportive footwear, maintaining a healthy weight, or modifying certain activities, can have a big impact on your arthritis symptoms.
Each person’s experience with arthritis is unique, and together we’ll find the right combination of treatments to help you feel your best without jumping straight to surgery.
Can Surgery Fix Arthritis In Your Feet?
While non-surgical treatments are often effective, there are cases where surgery becomes the best option for long-term relief. Surgery is typically considered when arthritis has severely damaged the joints, and other treatments haven’t provided enough relief. Here are a few surgical options that may be recommended:
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Joint Fusion (Arthrodesis): This procedure involves fusing two or more bones in the affected joint. While it limits movement in that joint, it can significantly reduce pain.
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Joint Replacement (Arthroplasty): In some cases, the damaged joint can be replaced with an artificial one, allowing for improved mobility and less pain.
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Debridement: This procedure removes loose cartilage or bone fragments from the joint, which can help reduce pain and improve joint function.
The decision to pursue surgery is a big one, and it’s important to weigh the benefits and recovery time. I’m here to guide you through the process, explain your options in detail, and help you decide what’s best for your long-term health.
Lifestyle Tips For Managing Arthritis
Managing arthritis often means making small adjustments in your daily routine that can add up to big improvements in your comfort and mobility. Here are some practical tips to help you manage your symptoms and keep your feet feeling their best:
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Stay Active: Low-impact exercises like swimming, biking, or yoga can help keep your joints flexible without putting too much strain on them. Walking is great too, but be sure to wear supportive shoes.
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Maintain a Healthy Weight: Carrying extra weight can put additional stress on your feet and ankles, so keeping your weight in a healthy range can reduce pain and slow the progression of arthritis.
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Footwear Matters: Invest in shoes with proper arch support and cushioning. Avoid high heels or shoes that don’t offer good support, as they can make your symptoms worse.
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Use Heat or Cold Therapy: Applying a warm compress to stiff joints can help improve blood flow and relieve stiffness, while cold packs can reduce inflammation and numb pain.
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Pace Yourself: It’s important to listen to your body. If certain activities cause pain, take breaks or modify how you’re doing them to prevent further strain on your joints.
Incorporating these tips into your daily routine can make a big difference in managing arthritis. Small changes can lead to lasting relief and help you stay active without aggravating your symptoms.
When Should You See A Podiatrist For Arthritis?
If you’ve been dealing with foot or ankle pain that doesn’t seem to improve with rest or over-the-counter treatments, it might be time to consult a podiatrist. Here are some signs that it’s worth seeking professional help:
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Persistent Pain: If your pain lasts for more than a few weeks and impacts your ability to walk, it’s a good idea to get it checked out.
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Swelling and Stiffness: Chronic swelling or stiffness that makes it hard to move your foot or ankle could indicate arthritis or another underlying condition.
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Limited Mobility: If you’re finding it increasingly difficult to move your joints or perform everyday activities, a podiatrist can help determine the cause and recommend treatment.
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Difficulty Wearing Shoes: If swelling or joint pain makes it uncomfortable or impossible to wear your usual shoes, this is a common sign that arthritis may be worsening.
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Failed Home Treatments: If home remedies like rest, ice, or pain relievers aren’t helping, it’s time to explore more advanced treatment options with a specialist.
Catching arthritis early is the best way to prevent it from worsening and affecting your mobility in the long-term. A podiatrist can diagnose the condition and create a personalized treatment plan to help you get back on track.
Book Your Consultation Today for
Foot and Ankle Arthritis Treatment
You don’t have to let arthritis slow you down. With the right treatment, it’s possible to manage your symptoms and improve your quality of life. Whether you’re experiencing mild discomfort or more severe pain, we’re here to help. At our clinic in Manhattan, NY, we offer personalized, compassionate care designed to address your specific needs and get you back on your feet.
From non-surgical treatments like physical therapy and custom orthotics to advanced surgical options, we’ll guide you through every step of your treatment journey. If you’re ready to take control of your foot and ankle arthritis, don’t wait any longer—schedule your consultation today and let’s work together to relieve your pain and restore your mobility.
Schedule your appointment today and take the first step toward healthier, happier feet!
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How much does Swift Plantar Wart Therapy in New York cost?The cost of Swift Plantar Wart Therapy can vary depending on the number of treatments needed and your specific case. Typically, patients require between three to four sessions. For a precise estimate, it’s best to schedule a consultation where we can assess your needs and provide a detailed breakdown of the costs.
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Does Swift therapy really work for plantar warts?Yes, Swift therapy is highly effective for treating plantar warts. Unlike traditional treatments that only address the surface of the wart, Swift targets the underlying HPV virus by stimulating your body’s immune response. This approach significantly improves the chances of completely eliminating the wart.
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Is Swift Plantar Wart Therapy covered by insurance?Coverage for Swift Plantar Wart Therapy can vary depending on your insurance plan. It’s a good idea to check with your insurance provider to see if this treatment is covered under your policy. Our office can also assist you with any insurance-related questions during your consultation.
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What is the success rate of Swift Plantar Wart Therapy in New York?Swift therapy has a high success rate compared to other treatment options because it targets the root cause of the wart—the HPV virus—by leveraging your immune system’s natural defenses. While individual results can vary, many patients experience significant improvement after completing the recommended treatment sessions.
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How do I know if my Swift treatment is working?You’ll likely notice a reduction in pain and discomfort as the treatment progresses, which is a good sign that your body is responding to the therapy. Additionally, the wart should start to shrink or flatten out. Your podiatrist will monitor your progress at each session to ensure the treatment is effective.
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Is Swift therapy safe?Yes, Swift therapy is a safe, FDA-cleared treatment option for plantar warts. It uses low-dose microwave energy that specifically targets the wart without causing damage to the surrounding tissue. Most patients experience minimal discomfort during the procedure and can return to their normal activities immediately afterward.
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What should I expect after Swift treatment?After each Swift treatment session, you can expect minimal to no downtime. There’s no need for bandages or special care, and you can resume your daily routine right away. Some patients notice an immediate reduction in pain, and over time, the wart should gradually diminish as your immune system works to eliminate the virus.
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How much does Swift microwave therapy cost?Similar to Swift Plantar Wart Therapy, the cost of Swift microwave therapy depends on your individual case and the number of sessions required. A consultation with your podiatrist will give you a clearer idea of the costs involved based on your treatment plan.
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Does Swift therapy hurt?While pain levels can vary, most patients report only mild discomfort during the brief, 2-second application of microwave energy. The discomfort typically subsides immediately after the treatment, and many patients even find that their wart-related pain decreases following the session.
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How effective is Swift Plantar Wart Therapy compared to other treatments?Swift therapy is generally more effective than traditional treatments because it targets the root cause of the wart— the HPV virus—rather than just addressing the surface. By harnessing your immune system, Swift offers a higher chance of complete wart removal, reducing the likelihood of recurrence.