Foot & Ankle Arthritis Treatment in Lake Travis & Lake Travis, TX
Arthritis of the foot and ankle affects millions of Americans — causing pain, stiffness, and progressively limited mobility that can impact every aspect of daily life. At Elite Foot & Ankle Associates near Lake Travis, TX, we specialize in managing foot and ankle arthritis with a comprehensive approach that combines pain relief, functional restoration, and — when surgery is the right choice — the most joint-preserving techniques available.
WHAT IS IT?
Arthritis is inflammation of a joint that causes progressive cartilage breakdown, leading to pain, swelling, stiffness, and deformity. The foot has 33 joints — any of which can be affected. The most commonly affected foot and ankle joints include the ankle, the subtalar joint (below the ankle), the first metatarsophalangeal joint (big toe), and the midfoot joints.
COMMON CAUSES
- Osteoarthritis: age-related cartilage wear and tear (most common)
- Post-traumatic arthritis: following fractures or significant sprains
- Rheumatoid arthritis: autoimmune destruction of joint lining
- Gout: uric acid crystal deposition causing acute inflammatory arthritis
- Psoriatic arthritis: associated with psoriasis skin condition
- Juvenile idiopathic arthritis in children and adolescents
SIGNS & SYMPTOMS
- Joint pain that worsens with activity and eases with rest (early arthritis)
- Morning stiffness that improves after moving around • Swelling and warmth over affected joints
- Bony prominence or deformity developing over time
- Limited range of motion and difficulty with stairs, uneven surfaces
- Pain at rest or at night (advanced arthritis)
- Gait changes to avoid painful positions
TREATMENT OPTIONS
- Custom orthotics and footwear modifications to reduce joint stress
- Anti-inflammatory medications (NSAIDs, topical formulations)
- Corticosteroid injections for significant flares
- Total ankle replacement (arthroplasty) as an alternative to fusion in appropriate candidates
- Hyaluronic acid (viscosupplementation) injections for joint lubrication
- MLS® Laser Therapy for anti-inflammatory relief
- Regenerative medicine: PRP or biologic injections to modulate inflammation
- Joint fusion (arthrodesis) for end-stage arthritis — provides excellent pain relief
WHY ELITE FOOT & ANKLE?
We approach arthritis management with the goal of maximizing your quality of life at every stage of the condition. For early and mid-stage arthritis, we have a robust toolkit of non-surgical treatments that can provide years of improved function. When surgery is needed, we offer both joint-preserving (replacement) and pain-eliminating (fusion) options and help you understand which is right for your specific situation.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
The same underlying disease processes (osteoarthritis, RA, gout) affect the foot and ankle. However, treatment options differ because of the foot's unique anatomy and function. Podiatric specialists offer foot-specific expertise that general rheumatologists or orthopedic surgeons may not.
Gout is a form of inflammatory arthritis caused by uric acid crystal deposits in joints — most classically the big toe joint. Acute attacks are intensely painful with sudden redness and swelling. Treatment includes NSAIDs, colchicine, or corticosteroids for acute attacks, and dietary modifications and urate-lowering medications for long-term management.
Cartilage damage cannot be reversed with current treatments. However, pain and function can be significantly improved, and progression can be slowed. Proper treatment allows most arthritis patients to remain active and comfortable for many years without surgery.
Hallux rigidus is arthritis of the first metatarsophalangeal joint (where the big toe meets the foot). It causes stiffness and pain with push-off during walking. Treatment ranges from stiff-soled shoes and orthotics to cortisone injections to surgical procedures including joint fusion or total joint replacement.
Both are effective. Ankle fusion eliminates painful motion and provides reliable, durable pain relief, but permanently reduces ankle mobility. Total ankle replacement preserves motion and feels more natural, but requires good bone quality and has a longer-term failure risk requiring revision. We'll review your anatomy, age, and activity goals to make the best recommendation.
SCHEDULE YOUR APPOINTMENT
Arthritis pain doesn’t have to control your life. Call Elite Foot & Ankle Associates near Lake Travis, TX at (512) 907-3100 or book your evaluation online. Dr. Nolaska serves Lake Travis, Lakeway, Bee Cave, Westlake, and Austin, TX.
Arthritis
Our specialized Arthritis Management service is dedicated to providing comprehensive care for individuals dealing with arthritis in the foot and ankle. Our experienced podiatrists understand the pain and limitations that arthritis can bring to your daily life. Through a thorough assessment, we accurately diagnose the type and severity of arthritis, whether it’s osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, or another form.
Our treatment approach encompasses a range of options, including medication management, orthotics, joint injections, physical therapy, and surgical intervention when necessary. We focus on not only managing pain and inflammation but also on preserving joint function and improving your overall quality of life. By tailoring our treatment plans to your specific condition and needs, our Arthritis Management service aims to empower you to maintain an active and fulfilling lifestyle despite the challenges of arthritis.
