What is Lower Limb Arthritis?
Arthritis is a term for inflammation of the joints. The two most common types that affect the lower limbs are osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis.
- Osteoarthritis (OA): Often referred to as “wear and tear” (but more recently being referred to as “wear and repair”), osteoarthritis occurs when the cartilage that cushions the ends of your bones gradually wears away. This leads to the bones rubbing against each other and/or the development of extra bone around the joint (known as osteophytes), causing pain, swelling, and reduced joint movement. Osteoarthritis frequently affects the hips, knees, ankles, mid-foot, and toe joints..
- Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA): Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disorder in which the immune system mistakenly attacks the joints, leading to inflammation. This condition can cause significant pain and swelling, particularly in the small joints of the feet and toes, eventually leading to joint deformity if left untreated.
The information below relates more to osteoarthritis, but some of the information is applicable to rheumatoid arthritis.
Symptoms of Lower Limb Arthritis
The symptoms of arthritis in the lower limbs can vary depending on the severity and the specific joints affected. Common symptoms include:
- Pain: Persistent joint pain is often the most noticeable symptom of arthritis. This pain may worsen with activity and improve with rest.
- Stiffness: Joints affected by arthritis can feel stiff, especially in the morning or after periods of inactivity.
- Swelling: Inflammation can cause the affected joints to swell, making them appear larger and feel tender to the touch.
- Reduced Range of Motion: Arthritis can limit the movement of the affected joints, making everyday tasks such as walking or climbing stairs difficult.
Joint Deformity: In more severe cases, the affected joints may become misshapen due to chronic inflammation and damage to the cartilage and bone.
Treatment Options for Lower Limb Arthritis
Although there is no cure for arthritis, various treatment options are available to help manage your symptoms and improve your quality of life. At Health First Foot and Gait Clinic, we tailor treatment plans to your individual needs, which may include a combination of conservative therapies, lifestyle modifications, and, in some cases, surgical interventions.
Causes and Risk Factors
The exact cause of arthritis is not always known, but several factors can increase your risk of developing the condition, particularly in the lower limbs:
- Age: As we age, the risk of developing arthritis increases, with joints experiencing wear and tear over time.
- Genetics: If there’s a family history of arthritis, your chances of developing the condition may be higher, particularly with rheumatoid arthritis.
- Previous Injury: Injuries such as fractures or dislocations can lead to arthritis later in life.
- Obesity: Carrying excess weight places additional stress on the weight-bearing joints in your lower limbs, increasing the risk of osteoarthritis.
Repetitive Strain: Jobs or activities that require repetitive motions or heavy lifting can contribute to the development of arthritis in the lower limbs.
Diagnosing Lower Limb Arthritis
A thorough assessment by our podiatrists is essential to accurately diagnose arthritis in the feet & ankles. During your consultation, we will review your medical history, conduct a physical examination, and may recommend imaging tests such as X-rays or MRIs to assess the extent of joint damage.
- Physical Examination: Our podiatrists will assess the affected joints for signs of swelling, tenderness, and reduced range of motion. We will also evaluate your gait and posture to identify any compensatory movements that may be contributing to your symptoms.
Imaging Tests: X-rays help us visualise the extent of cartilage loss and bone damage, while MRIs provide a more detailed view of the soft tissues, including cartilage and ligaments.
When to Seek Professional Help
If you experience persistent joint pain, stiffness, or swelling in your lower limbs, it’s important to seek professional help. Early intervention can help prevent further joint damage and improve your quality of life.
At Health First Foot and Gait Clinic, our experienced podiatrists are here to provide comprehensive care for all aspects of foot & ankle arthritis. We offer a range of treatment options tailored to your individual needs, helping you manage your symptoms and maintain an active, pain-free lifestyle. Contact us today to schedule an appointment and take the first step towards better joint health.
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I experienced a very accurate diagnosis. Treatment was good and the pain is easing very nicely. Greeted by a pleasant lady on reception and advised of the need to follow PPE. Met with Jonathan who is very friendly and professional just as you would expect. Highly recommend him to help solve your feet/foot problems. 
John Dewar
I have been seeing Jonathan for over 20 years. He did a wonderful job to get me from hobbling around a golf course, barely able to finish a round, to fully engaging in a range of sports and activities I thought were beyond me for good. I continue to use his services when worn-out orthotics need replacing. He is a consummate professional and a very friendly, decent guy to boot. He is well supported by his excellent reception team. I thoroughly recommend Health First to anyone looking for a top quality foot care service and am happy to vouch in person if anyone cares to get in touch.
Andrew Hall
- As a foot heath practitioner who has recently attended one of Jonathan’s talks I would refer my patients on to him without reservation should they need specialist input. His lectures are interesting, informative and motivating. I have crossed his path at numerous events where I have listened to him. He instills confidence.
Liza Clarke
My 15 year old son had an ingrown toenail which was very painful. We were able to see Jonathan very quickly who explained everything really clearly, he advised minor surgery to remove part of the nail and said he could do the procedure there and then. The procedure was carried out professionally and with every care for my son. I would highly recommend Jonathan and his clinic. Excellent aftercare also. Thanks so much. Karen Grant
- I visited Jonathan with terrible foot pain, he diagnosed it as plantar fasciitis after a full check and I was given sets of exercises to heal my foot, I have just left after my third visit and the pain has all but gone, I found Jonathan and Kate very friendly, would and have recommend to others, Thank you.👣
Paul Fogg
I have had persistent pain with my toenails for years, but did not know the cause of the problem.
Previous visits to a different podiatrist left me with no answers! After researching local podiatrists I found that Health First came highly recommended.
Mr Small quickly found out the cause of my problem and recommended the best treatment options.
The staff were all very friendly and made me feel welcome. All very professional.
I cannot recommend them enough to anyone! Will be going back for my follow up treatment in the new year. Millie Hefferan
- I have received first class treatment and my foot is feeling less painful especially after the
laser treatment I had on it.
Mary Richardson
I can so recommend this company, their treatments and advice were exemplary and I was made to feel so relaxed and looked after from beginning to end Jackie King
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I wouldn't trust anyone else with my foot-care. With severe circulation issues, my feet are comprised - Health First have treated me for 15 years and I highly recommend them.
Angela Navarro
Excellent!!! Very professional service, great treatment and aftercare. Definitely recommend. Thanks for fitting me in at short notice too!!
Clare Everest
- Highly recommend this practice. Jonathan and his team are extremely professional and friendly. As a cancer patient I was anxious to find a podiatrist whom I could trust completely. Jonathan took time to fully understand my medical situation and on-going difficulty with my toes. He was proactive in communicating with my Oncologist and the required nail surgery took place 2 days after my initial appointment. Everything was carefully explained and skilfully carried out. I am one very satisfied customer!
Angela Terry
Excellent service. I am so pleased with the help, advice and treatment recieved. Many thanks
Jackie Dewdney
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Aaliyah Rus
Thank you to Jonathan for taking the time to share your knowledge and experience with me. Five stars! Thanks a bunch!
Hannah Krepski
- Jonathan is an inspirational Podiatrist.
Having attended several courses that have been run by Jonathan and having been lucky enough to have heard him speak at multiple professional events, my knowledge has increased dramatically, as has my love for Podiatry.
A true gentleman and a fabulous educator.
Sarah Byrne
if you have any worries about your feet then this is the place to go. First class service.i was given Jonathan's details after a foot opperation went wrong he has really helped me and made it now that I can get back to my normal life. thank you guys !!!
Carolyn Clayton
- 100% recommendation. I walked in with significant foot pain and walked out strapped up and reasonably pain free. The initial consultation was delivered with expert knowledge, professionalism and clearly explained diagnosis and treatment plan.
I had attended another foot clinic for a diagnosis but my instinct told me to walk away and consider their treatment proposal and seek another opinion. I felt disappointed that I had no immediate temporary solution to reduce constant foot pain..
I was then recommended to contact Jonathan and the rest is history. His manner and professionalism exceeds, not only am I working towards pain free walking I know I have the confidence in approaching a clear expert. Thank you Jonathan and your team. I have already recommended.
Helen Keast
After running a long-distance ultra marathon, my feet were in poor shape! They got some much-needed TLC (and more sympathy than from my GP!!). Jonathan sorted out a blister that was hidden under another blister and got my feet on the way to healing 😀 Zoe Beale
- Jonathan Small and his team have been excellent. A person centred, straight forward approach and really genuine team. I had been told by NHS and other podiatrists that the healing after ingrowing toe nail would take up to 12 weeks yet after the surgery at Health First Foot, it has completely healed in just over 3 weeks. Going privately was one of the best investments I've made. Thank you Health First !
Nikki Jackson
Had a fantastic day observing in clinic yesterday!
Jonathan AMAZED me with his extensive knowledge, he was very supportive & I learnt so much just in 1 day!
I admire Jonathans determination & drive to help his patients resolve any issues they may have & I hope to follow in his footsteps once I graduate from university.
Thanks again for the opportunity your useful and excellent advice will always remain with me.
Faye 🙂 Faye Green