Osteoarthritis of the Foot

Healthy joint and osteoarthritis of the foot

Osteoarthritis is a condition in which the cartilage that protects and cushions the joints breaks down over time. Eventually, the bones-formerly separated by the cartilage-rub against each other. This results in damage to the tissue and bone and causes painful joint symptoms.

Osteoarthritis is common in the joints of the toes. It is most often found in the joint where the big toe joins the foot. It is also common in the smaller joints of the other toes.

ByHealthwise Staff

Primary Medical ReviewerAnne C. Poinier, MD - Internal Medicine

Martin J. Gabica, MD - Family Medicine

Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine

Specialist Medical ReviewerStanford M. Shoor, MD - Rheumatology

Current as ofOctober 31, 2016

Current as of: October 31, 2016

Author: Healthwise Staff

Medical Review: Anne C. Poinier, MD - Internal Medicine & Martin J. Gabica, MD - Family Medicine & Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine & Stanford M. Shoor, MD - Rheumatology