Foot & Ankle Osteoarthritis
Specialist management of osteoarthritis affecting the foot and ankle. We help you stay active and reduce pain without surgery.
HCPC Registered Chiropodists & Podiatrists · Royal College of Podiatry Member · Fellow of the Royal College of Physicians & Surgeons of Glasgow · MCSP Chartered Physiotherapist · Physio First Member · BUPA & WPA Recognised
What is Osteoarthritis?
Osteoarthritis is the most common form of arthritis, caused by wear and tear of the cartilage that cushions your joints. In the foot and ankle, it most commonly affects the big toe joint, ankle, and midfoot.
While there's no cure for osteoarthritis, proper management can significantly reduce pain, improve function, and slow progression. Many people with foot arthritis can remain active with appropriate treatment.
Common Symptoms
- Joint pain that worsens with activity
- Stiffness, especially in the morning
- Swelling around the joint
- Reduced range of motion
- Bone spurs or lumps around joints
- Difficulty walking or climbing stairs
Common Causes
- Age-related wear and tear
- Previous joint injuries
- Obesity and excess weight
- Genetics and family history
- Inflammatory conditions
- Abnormal foot mechanics
- Repetitive stress on joints
How We Treat Osteoarthritis
We take a comprehensive approach to managing foot and ankle osteoarthritis, focusing on reducing pain, maintaining mobility, and slowing disease progression. Our treatments are evidence-based and tailored to your specific joints and lifestyle. For arthritic foot and ankle joints, 3D-printed orthotics can offload the affected joint and ease load-related pain.
Custom Orthotics
Designed to offload affected joints and improve foot mechanics.
Footwear Modification
Rocker-sole shoes, stiff-soled shoes, or modifications to reduce joint stress.
Joint Injections
Corticosteroid or hyaluronic acid injections for pain relief.
Exercise Programme
Gentle exercises to maintain joint mobility and strengthen supporting muscles.
Ready to get osteoarthritis treated?
When to Seek Professional Help
- Joint pain is affecting your daily activities
- Stiffness lasts more than 30 minutes
- You notice joint swelling or deformity
- Pain medication isn't providing relief
- You want to avoid or delay surgery
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about Osteoarthritis at Lower Limb Clinic.
Clinically reviewed by Paul McMullan
MSc Podiatric Sports Medicine (QMUL) · FRCPSGlasg · HCPC Registered
Lead Podiatrist & Clinical Director, Lower Limb Clinic Belfast
Get Expert Treatment
- Same-week appointments available
- No GP referral needed
- MSc-qualified specialists
Recommended Treatment
Physiotherapy & Joint Loading RehabRelated Conditions
Find Your Nearest Clinic
Get specialist Osteoarthritis treatment at your nearest Belfast clinic
Lisburn Road Clinic
385 Lisburn Road, BT9 7EP
Ormeau Road Clinic
373 Ormeau Road, BT7 3GP
We serve patients from across Belfast and Northern Ireland including East Belfast, South Belfast, Lisburn, Bangor, Holywood, Newtownards, Dundonald, Carryduff, Hillsborough, and Comber.