Arthritis

Arthritis is an inflammation and swelling of the cartilage and lining of the joints, usually together with an increase in fluid in the joints. 
 
Arthritis is a disabling and rarely crippling disease. In some forms, it may be genetic.
Even though the incidence of arthritis increases with age, all people from infancy to middle age are possible victims. People over 50 are the primary targets.

Arthritic feet can result in loss of mobility and independence.
However, early diagnosis and appropriate care can limit or slow the damage.

Symptoms of arthritis in the foot and ankle include:
 
    Early morning stiffness.
    Limitation in motion of joint.
    Chronic pain or tenderness in any joint.
    Redness or heat in a joint.
    Skin changes, including rashes and growths.
    Swelling in one or more joints.

 Forms of Arthritis

Osteoarthritis  - the most common form of arthritis. It is often called degenerative joint disease or wear and tear arthritis. 
Aging usually leads to a breakdown in cartilage and pain gradually worsens.
Dull, throbbing night-time pain is characteristic and may be accompanied by muscle weakness or deterioration.
Overweight people are particularly susceptible to osteoarthritis as the extra weight contributes to
the deterioration of cartilage.

Rheumatoid arthritis - a major crippling disorder and the most serious form of arthritis.
It is a multifaceted, chronic inflammatory group of diseases, often affecting more than a dozen smaller joints during its course.

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