Arthritis
Specialized Arthritis Care
Managing Pain and Preserving Mobility
Arthritis can affect any joint in the body, but it is especially painful and limiting when it develops in the feet and ankles, which carry your weight and keep you moving each day. Inflammation within these joints leads to stiffness, swelling, tenderness, and restricted motion, often making simple activities like walking, standing, or climbing stairs increasingly difficult. Over time, arthritis may also cause visible changes in joint structure and long-term mobility challenges if not properly managed.
At InStride Foot & Ankle of the Carolinas, our experienced podiatrists, Dr. Eric Ward and Dr. Blaise Woeste, provide advanced evaluation and treatment for all types of foot and ankle arthritis, including osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, gout, and post-traumatic arthritis. By focusing on early intervention, personalized care, and proven therapies, we aim to slow disease progression, relieve pain, protect joint function, and help patients maintain an active lifestyle with greater comfort and confidence.
Signs and Symptoms of Arthritis
- Pain, swelling, or tenderness around the joints
- Stiffness and reduced range of motion
- Redness, warmth, or sensitivity in affected areas
- Changes in joint shape or visible deformities
- Difficulty walking or standing for long periods

Arthritis is progressive, and without treatment symptoms often worsen over time, eventually leading to greater pain and limitations in daily movement.
Treatment Options for Arthritis
- Custom orthotics to support and align joints
- Footwear changes, including prescription shoes
- Anti-inflammatory medications or topical creams
- Exercises to improve joint strength and flexibility
- Combination therapy tailored to maximize relief

While there is no cure for arthritis, our team provides effective treatments that reduce pain, improve function, and help patients maintain active, comfortable lives.
Start Your Journey to Wellness Today
Talk With Foot and Ankle Specialist Today!
You don’t have to live with ongoing foot or ankle arthritis pain. Contact InStride Foot & Ankle of the Carolinas in Matthews or Monroe to schedule an appointment and learn more about customized treatment options.
