Struggling With Foot or Ankle Osteoarthritis?
What’s Really Causing It — and How We Treat It
If you feel aching, stiff, or painful joints in your feet or ankles when walking, standing, or moving, you’re not alone.
Osteoarthritis in the foot and ankle is a common degenerative joint condition we treat — and the good news is, it can be managed effectively with the right approach.
At We Fix Feet, we diagnose exactly why your joints are deteriorating — whether it’s age-related wear, previous injury, repetitive stress, or biomechanics — and guide you through evidence-based treatment that supports real healing, not just temporary relief.
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What Is Foot & Ankle Osteoarthritis?
Osteoarthritis is a degenerative joint condition where cartilage breaks down, leading to pain, stiffness, and reduced movement.
It can significantly affect daily activities and quality of life when it occurs in the foot or ankle.
Symptoms of foot and ankle osteoarthritis may include:
- Aching or sharp pain in the affected joints
- Stiffness, especially after rest or inactivity
- Swelling around the joint
- Reduced range of motion in the foot or ankle
- Bone spurs causing additional discomfort
How We Treat Foot & Ankle Osteoarthritis
At We Fix Feet, we provide tailored treatments to reduce pain, improve joint function, and support long-term mobility, including:
- Lifestyle modifications to reduce joint stress and manage weight
- Physical therapy to strengthen muscles and improve flexibility
- Custom orthotic devices to support the foot’s structure and relieve pressure
- Medications for pain relief and inflammation management
- Joint injections, such as corticosteroids, to reduce inflammation and provide temporary relief
- Surgical intervention in severe cases to restore function or fuse/replace affected joints
Causes & Risk Factors
Foot and ankle osteoarthritis often develops due to:
- Age-related wear and tear on joint cartilage
- Previous injuries like fractures or sprains
- Repetitive stress from work or high-impact activities
- Excess body weight adding pressure to weight-bearing joints
- Genetic predisposition or family history of osteoarthritis
BOOK YOUR CONSULTATION TODAY
If foot or ankle pain from osteoarthritis is affecting your mobility or comfort, early treatment can make a significant difference.
Book a comprehensive assessment at We Fix Feet and take the first step toward lasting relief.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Osteoarthritis
What is osteoarthritis?
Osteoarthritis is a degenerative joint condition caused by the gradual breakdown of cartilage. It commonly affects weight-bearing joints such as the feet, ankles, knees, hips, and spine, leading to pain, stiffness, and reduced movement.
What are the symptoms of osteoarthritis?
Symptoms may include joint pain, stiffness (especially in the morning or after rest), swelling, reduced range of motion, aching during or after activity, and discomfort that worsens with prolonged use.
What causes osteoarthritis?
Osteoarthritis develops due to wear and tear over time, but risk factors include previous injury, repetitive joint stress, poor biomechanics, excess body weight, ageing, and genetic predisposition.
Can osteoarthritis get better on its own?
Osteoarthritis cannot be reversed, but symptoms can be effectively managed. Without proper care, pain and stiffness may gradually worsen. Early intervention helps slow progression and improve quality of life.
How is osteoarthritis treated?
Treatment options may include:
• Biomechanical assessment to identify joint stress patterns
• Custom orthotics to improve alignment and reduce joint load
• Strengthening and mobility exercises
• Activity modification and load management
• Shockwave or laser therapy for pain relief where appropriate
• Footwear advice to improve support and shock absorption
How long does it take to see improvement with osteoarthritis treatment?
Many people experience symptom relief within weeks of starting a structured treatment plan. Long-term improvement depends on consistency, activity management, and addressing contributing factors.
Can I stay active with osteoarthritis?
Yes. Staying active is important, but high-impact activities may need to be modified. Low-impact exercise and guided rehabilitation help maintain mobility, strength, and joint health.
How do orthotics help with osteoarthritis?
Custom orthotics reduce excessive joint loading, improve lower limb alignment, and absorb shock — helping relieve pain and protect affected joints during daily activities.
When should I see a specialist for osteoarthritis?
You should seek professional advice if joint pain persists, stiffness worsens, mobility becomes limited, or everyday activities are affected despite rest or self-management.
How can We Fix Feet help with osteoarthritis?
At We Fix Feet, we take a whole-body approach to joint health. Our podiatrists assess movement patterns, reduce joint stress through targeted treatment, and help you stay active, comfortable, and confident
Still Feeling A Little Confused About Ostheoarthritis And Don't Know What To Do?
- Fill in the form to request a Call From Our Team
- One of our team will call you for FREE and answer any questions or concerns you may have about Osteoarthritis.
Still Confused About How We Can Help Solve Your Foot Pain ? Take Us Up On One Of Our FREE Options
Our Clinic Locations
We have two convenient locations in Beeston and Ilkeston, making expert podiatry and sports rehabilitation accessible across Nottinghamshire and Derbyshire.
Ilkeston Clinic
- Open: Mon-Fri 09:00AM - 05:00PM / Sat 09:00AM - 01:00PM
- 94 Bath Street, Ilkeston, Derbyshire DE7 8FE
- +44 115 932 8832
- enquiries@wefixfeet.co.uk
Beeston Clinic
- Open: Mon-Fri 09:00AM - 05:00PM / Sat 09:00AM - 01:00PM
- 36a The Square, Beeston, Nottinghamshire NG9 2JJ.
- +44 115 922 3377.
- enquiries@wefixfeet.co.uk
Testimonials
Before You Book Your Appointment, Here’s Just A Handful Of Our Patients Success Stories To Put Your Mind At Ease
I had an ingrown toenail which I had left way too long and had become infected. I finally plucked up the courage to visit We Fix Feet in Ilkeston. My only regret is not visiting sooner! Ronnie was able to remove the portion of ingrown toenail at my first appointment, and within a day or two, my nail was perfect. After hiding my feet for many years I finally have a healthy set of toenails and have treated myself to my first ever pair of open toe sandals! All the staff here are wonderful, professional and very reassuring for which I am very grateful. Thank you
I had an ingrown toenail which I had left way too long and had become infected. I finally plucked up the courage to visit We Fix Feet in Ilkeston. My only regret is not visiting sooner! Ronnie was able to remove the portion of ingrown toenail at my first appointment, and within a day or two, my nail was perfect. After hiding my feet for many years I finally have a healthy set of toenails and have treated myself to my first ever pair of open toe sandals! All the staff here are wonderful, professional and very reassuring for which I am very grateful. Thank you
