When people think of arthritis, they often picture knees or hips. But your feet and ankles can be affected too, and when they are, every step can feel heavier than it should.

Arthritis simply means wear and tear or inflammation in a joint. In the foot and ankle, it often follows an old injury or develops gradually over years of use. You may notice stiffness first thing in the morning, swelling after activity, or a deep ache that worsens on uneven ground.

Non-surgical treatment is always the first step. Supportive shoes, physiotherapy, and potentially hyaluronic acid (HA) joint injections can help restore comfort and motion. These work by improving the natural lubrication inside the joint.

If arthritis becomes severe and limits daily life, surgery, such as joint fusion or replacement, can be a life-changing option. The right approach depends on which joint is affected and your level of activity.

The key is timing. The sooner you get assessed, the more choice you’ll have before stiffness becomes permanent.