Arthritis isn’t just for your grandparents, and it’s certainly not only about knees and hips. Yes, arthritis in the feet is more common than you think, and it can strike young adults, too. So, what causes arthritis in young adults, and how do arthritis symptoms show up in your feet? Let’s dive in to discover what to watch for and what you can do to find relief and stay active.
Arthritis is often linked with age, but it can develop in people of all ages due to factors like genetics, injury, or lifestyle. Young adults may experience arthritis due to repetitive stress on the joints, past injuries, or even genetic predispositions. Recognising early symptoms of arthritis in your feet is essential for finding effective treatment options and managing pain.
Arthritis symptoms in feet often start subtly, but one of the first indicators is pain. Whether it’s in your toes, heels, or the arch, if you notice pain that sticks around, this could be arthritis knocking on your door. Arthritis pain usually feels achy or sore, especially after long periods of activity.
Joint stiffness is a common and early sign of arthritis, particularly in the feet and ankles. If you feel stiff in the morning or after sitting for a while, it might be time to take note. Stiffness is one of those telltale arthritis symptoms that you should never ignore.
Foot arthritis can cause swelling around the joints, often in the toes, midfoot, or ankle. Swelling may worsen after activity or stand as a persistent reminder of inflammation.
As arthritis progresses, it can limit your foot’s range of motion, making it difficult to perform basic movements. This can be frustrating, especially for active young adults. Mobility exercises can help, but if the pain persists, it might indicate that arthritis is impacting your flexibility.
Ever notice popping or clicking sounds when you move? These noises, called “crepitus,” can be an early symptom of arthritis in your feet or ankles. This symptom can be particularly noticeable in cases of ankle arthritis, where wear and tear on cartilage leads to joint instability.
Over time, arthritis can cause changes in the shape of foot joints, making them appear larger or more angular. This can lead to bunions or hammertoes in severe cases, often leading to additional pain and discomfort. Addressing these changes with early treatment can prevent further complications.
Arthritis in the feet impacts stability, making you more prone to slips and falls. This balance issue is common in advanced cases of arthritis and can affect young adults who may not even realise arthritis is the cause. Exercises for arthritis relief in feet are beneficial to build strength and maintain balance.
If you’re dealing with ankle arthritis or any form of foot arthritis, focusing on the right treatment is crucial. There are exercises you should avoid, especially those that place excessive strain on the knees, like deep squats and lunges. Knee arthritis exercises also apply to foot arthritis because excess pressure can impact foot joints, worsening symptoms.
Not all exercises are bad news! Low-impact exercises like swimming, cycling, and certain yoga poses are great for relieving arthritis symptoms in feet without stressing the joints. Did you know strengthening the muscles around the ankle and foot can help stabilise these areas, reducing pain and increasing mobility.
If you are someone who is looking for strategies to manage arthritis pain, check out our blog on effective strategies to manage knee and lower back pain due to arthritis.
Cold packs help reduce inflammation and numb the aching area. You can use an ice pack wrapped in a cloth, but avoid applying ice directly on the skin to prevent frostbite. Cold therapy is great for swelling and can be applied after activities that strain your joints.
Epsom salt is high in magnesium, which can help relieve muscle tension and pain. Adding Epsom salt to a warm foot or hand soak can help ease joint pain and swelling. Soak for about 15–20 minutes to get the full benefit.
Applying warm compresses or taking a warm bath can help soothe sore joints, improve circulation, and relax stiff muscles. Heat therapy is particularly effective in the morning to alleviate stiffness.
Turmeric contains curcumin, a powerful anti-inflammatory compound. When combined with ginger, another anti-inflammatory agent, it can be even more effective. Drinking turmeric and ginger tea daily may help reduce pain and inflammation over time.
If arthritis symptoms are affecting your feet, Granimals offers expert-led physiotherapy and rehabilitation tailored to your needs. Book a free service demo consultation with us today, and let’s work together to find a treatment plan that keeps you active and pain-free. Fill out the form below to get started!
Q1. Can arthritis really affect young adults?
Answer: It may sound shocking but yes, arthritis can impact young adults due to injury, genetics, or repetitive joint stress. Catching early symptoms of arthritis is important for an effective treatment and prevention.
Q2. Are there specific exercises to avoid with foot arthritis?
Answer: Yes, exercises that put pressure on the knees or feet, like deep squats or jumping movements, should generally be avoided. You can go for low-impact activities like swimming or biking instead.
Q3. What treatments are available for ankle arthritis?
Answer: Treatments for ankle arthritis range from physical therapy and anti-inflammatory medications to lifestyle adjustments. In severe cases, surgical options may be considered. Consult with a professional for a tailored approach.
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