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Controlling arthritis pain starts with understanding this condition. Arthritis is actually an umbrella term for several different conditions. They all have one thing in common, though: joint inflammation. Sometimes, this inflammation comes from wear-and-tear (osteoarthritis). Other times, it’s caused by an immune system problem (rheumatoid arthritis).
Whatever the case may be, the inflammation in your joints can be uncomfortable. That’s particularly true when the arthritis affects the joints in your feet or ankles. With the inflammation in play, getting around becomes an uncomfortable proposition.
Fortunately, William T. DeCarbo, DPM, FACFAS, and our team at Greater Pittsburgh Foot & Ankle Center can help. As an expert in arthritis, Dr. DeCarbo has a number of treatment options he can apply for you. Those range from lifestyle changes all the way up to surgery.
Visit Dr. DeCarbo at our office in Wexford, Pennsylvania, and he can tailor treatment to you. Usually, that means starting with conservative options, like lifestyle changes. Here are a few things you can try on your own if you want to lessen your arthritis pain.
Stop wearing bad shoes
Your shoes can either cushion and support your feet or create more problems. Narrow shoes can put pressure on your joints, for example, worsening inflammation and arthritis pain.
If shoes feel uncomfortable, don’t wear them. Make sure they’re wide enough and have enough room in the toe box to avoid pressing on your joints. Dr. DeCarbo recommends that people with arthritis avoid high heels and ones with a pointed toe.
To make your shoe choices even more effective for avoiding arthritis pain, talk to Dr. DeCarbo about custom orthotics. Adding these inserts into your shoe can provide more cushioning and/or support where your joints need it.
Stop eating an inflammatory diet
The food you eat and the beverages you drink can make inflammation worse or help to soothe it. To lessen your arthritis pain, avoid excess:
- Alcohol
- Aspartame
- Refined carbs (e.g., white bread, white rice)
- Sugar
- Saturated fat
- Trans fat
Opt instead for a healthy, arthritis-friendly diet that’s rich in whole foods.
Stop smoking (including vaping)
Lighting up might light a fire under your arthritis symptoms. Smoking contributes to inflammation in your body — including in your joints. As a result, it can both cause and worsen arthritis.
If you prefer to smoke electronically instead of with traditional cigarettes, you’re not in the clear. Studies show that vaping has a negative impact on arthritis symptoms.
Stopping these few things can help to moderate your discomfort. You don’t have to stop there, though. For even more relief from your foot or ankle arthritis pain, call our office or book your appointment online today.