Age
The risk of developing OA increases with age due to the natural wear and tear on joints over time.
Injury
Previous injuries to the midfoot, such as fractures or ligament damage, can predispose the joints to OA.
Repetitive Stress
Activities that put repeated stress on the midfoot, such as certain sports or occupations, can contribute to joint degeneration.
Obesity
Excess body weight increases the load on weight-bearing joints, accelerating wear and tear.
Genetics
A family history of osteoarthritis can increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Structural Abnormalities
Conditions like flat feet or high arches can alter the biomechanics of the foot, leading to uneven stress on the joints.
Inflammatory Conditions
Some inflammatory diseases, such as rheumatoid arthritis, can also affect the midfoot joints and lead to OA.
The combination of these assessments helps in confirming the diagnosis and determining the severity of the condition.
Treatment may involve physical therapy, medications, orthotics, and in some cases, surgical intervention to alleviate pain
and improve function. Treatment for midfoot osteoarthritis (OA) aims to relieve pain, improve function, and slow disease
progression. Common approaches include:
A therapist can provide exercises to strengthen foot muscles, improve flexibility, and enhance joint stability.
Custom shoe inserts or supportive footwear can help redistribute pressure on the foot and provide cushioning.
A brace or splint can stabilise the foot and alleviate stress on affected joints.
If conservative treatments fail, surgical options such as joint fusion or joint replacement may be considered, particularly for severe cases.
