Arthritis of the foot. Pinpointing the disease process involved

Arthritides of the foot present with inflammatory signs. The age of the patient, location of the pain, findings on foot examination, and radiographic signs can help determine which of the arthritides is present. Accurate diagnosis can help establish the appropriate course of therapy. Rest and the use of nonsteroidal antiinflammatory agents and shoes fitted with appropriate orthoses can be beneficial in most cases. Surgery is rarely indicated but may be useful to correct severe deformities or to relieve debilitating pain.