Osteoarthritis Treatment in Hobart
Osteoarthritis can affect the joints of the foot, ankle and knee, causing pain, stiffness and changes in movement. These symptoms can make walking, exercise and everyday activities more difficult.
At Foot Systems, we provide evidence-based care to help manage osteoarthritis symptoms, improve function and support your mobility. Our approach is individualised to your condition, lifestyle and goals.
What is Osteoarthritis?
Osteoarthritis is a condition that affects the joints and the tissues surrounding them. It can cause changes within the joint, which may contribute to pain, stiffness, swelling and reduced movement.
Osteoarthritis can affect several areas of the lower limb, including knee osteoarthritis, ankle osteoarthritis, midfoot osteoarthritis and arthritis of the big toe joint. Symptoms can vary between individuals and may change over time.
What Causes Osteoarthritis Symptoms?
Osteoarthritis develops through a combination of factors, and symptoms are not always directly related to the amount of joint changes seen on an X-ray or scan.
Factors that may contribute to symptoms include:
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Previous joint injury
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Age-related changes
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Repetitive or increased loading
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Changes in movement or joint function
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Muscle weakness or reduced mobility
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Footwear and the way loads are distributed through the lower limb
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Changes in activity levels
Understanding how your symptoms affect your movement and daily activities helps guide an appropriate treatment plan.
How We Treat Osteoarthritis at Foot Systems
Our podiatrists assess your symptoms, foot and lower-limb function, footwear and activity levels. We consider how the affected joint is being loaded and how this may be influencing your pain and movement.
Treatment is tailored to your individual needs and may focus on improving comfort, managing joint loading, maintaining mobility and helping you continue with the activities you enjoy.
Treatment Options for Osteoarthritis
Depending on the affected joint and your symptoms, treatment may include:
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Footwear advice to improve comfort and support
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Foot orthoses to help manage load through the foot and lower limb
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Exercise and movement strategies to maintain strength and mobility
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Activity and load management to help manage symptoms
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Rehabilitation to support function and confidence with movement
Frequently Asked Questions; Heel Pain
What is Osteoarthritis
Osteoarthritis is a joint condition that can cause pain, stiffness and changes in movement. It can affect the foot, ankle, knee and other joints.
Can osteoarthritis affect the foot and ankle?
Yes. Osteoarthritis can affect joints throughout the foot and ankle, including the big toe, midfoot and ankle joints.
Can podiatry help with knee osteoarthritis?
Yes. Podiatry may help manage symptoms associated with knee osteoarthritis by addressing foot and lower-limb function, footwear and joint loading.
Should I keep exercising with osteoarthritis?
Exercise and movement are often important parts of managing osteoarthritis. Your podiatrist can help you identify appropriate activities and strategies to manage symptoms.