What Is Arthritis in the Foot?

Degenerative arthritis is a condition that slowly wears away joints. These are the areas where bones meet and move. At first, you may notice that the affected joint seems stiff. It may even ache. As the joint lining (cartilage) breaks down, the bones rub against each other, causing pain and swelling. Over time, small pieces of rough or splintered bone (bone spurs) develop, and the joint’s range of motion becomes limited. But movement doesn’t have to cause pain. In most cases, the pain from arthritis can be eased with medical care. If needed, surgery may be done.