Arthritis in my foot

[Gerry1953]

I'm not great at taking painkillers and anti anflammatory gel doesn't really work. I've been using an ankle/foot support from Boots and not really sure if that's helping as I've left things so long. Does this kind of support help as I'm looking at buying some more lighter discreet ones?

[Hidden]

I think this is personal preference. I went with my OH and persuaded the assistance to let him try all ankle support options. Some you could only wear with sloppy slippers, other were impossible to get on, some just like a thick sock. He bought a Neo G Airflow+ (Not advertising) and found it easier to get on as it has a slippery introducer sock, was supportive and he could still wear broad lace up shoes.

He had acupuncture x 6 but was uncertain about that. Now using light wt bands as advocated by physio to try and regain strength. Good luck!

[oldtimer]

If you can see a podiatrist that would be a great help. They are the experts on what exactly will help which foot conditions. They can analyse you walking pattern and how you use your feet and advise on the best type of support - and usually supply them too, even modifying them for you to your exact needs.

[Hidden in reply to oldtimer]

Absolutely! I was thinking just ankle, not whole foot/mechanism issues.

[Hidden]

Sounds very unpleasant. I’m assuming that you’re from the UK (due to “Boots”) - but have you seen a doctor about this? Mainly, because you haven’t been specific about where/what the pain is about, and if painkiller and anti-inflam gel isn’t helping, it sounds like a case for a proper medico. Please go and see someone, cheers Deb

[AgedCrone]

Before you spend money on what could be completely the wrong treatment get some clinical advice.

Problems with your foot/ankle can affect your whole leg & your back....not something to take lightly.

[nomoreheels]

Please seek professional help. You need to because there are 26 bones, 33 joints & more than 100 ligaments, tendons & muscles in the foot & ankle alone, you can cause more damage if you buy off the shelf & aren't advised properly. Advice from someone in a chemists, it's not enough as they're intent on selling you something, they're not qualified in the mechanics of the feet.

You say you have arthritis, I take it you have OA? You've not been diagnosed by a Specialist in Rheumatology? If that's correct then please do arrange to see a Podiatrist (Chiropodist) either by referral from your GP or privately. They will be able to diagnose just what's wrong & if you need support which is best for you, if not then what is needed for comfort & ease pain. They can also recommend which type of footwear is best for you & even arrange custom made insoles if necessary.

It might be worth asking your GP to test your Rheumatoid Factor & inflammation levels. Without wanting to worry you usually Rheumatoid Disease (an alternative name for Rheumatoid Arthritis) typically presents in the hands or the feet. I went to my GP with painful feet & fortunately she recognised straight away the possibility so took bloods. I had no other symptoms in any other joints, I was referred to Rheumatology & diagnosed by my feet alone.

[SwimmerBTC]

I am having a lot of problems with my right ankle and left big toe. It is nothing to do with my RA. The orthopaedic consultant to whom I was referred by my GP, after X-rays were taken, sent me for an MRI scan and I'm now on a list for an op and to be seen by the orthotics department. Go to see your GP for a start, he/she should be able to advise. Good luck.

[4seasons]

Hi Gerry, I understand how you feel as I am experiencing the same problem in my left foot , very swollen ankle and pains in toes . Saw my GP who is requesting blood test and a podiatrist, I have been on steroids 10mg for a while but no result . I take co-codamol only when the pain is unbearable and at night to secure a good night sleep ! Wearing shoes is a problem. I will let you know what my results were next week.

Hope you find a solution. Good luck .

[daisychains58]

Hi Gerry1953. I too have severe ankle arthritis, not RA and need a replacement. It’s swells, aches and I can’t weight bear, I use a stretchy ankle strap that goes under the heal, around the foot and ankle and does help support the ankle and also when it aches constantly, helps at night too with the aching. Hope this helps. All the best