Foot & Ankle Arthritis Treatment in Miami & Doral, Florida
Expert Foot & Ankle Care with Dr. Alejandro Pino, MD
Arthritis of the foot and ankle can cause chronic pain, swelling, stiffness, and limited mobility that affects everyday activities like walking, standing, and even getting out of bed. Whether resulting from wear-and-tear osteoarthritis, post-traumatic injury, or inflammatory conditions, arthritis requires personalized care to manage symptoms and protect long-term joint health.
At the practice of Dr. Alejandro Pino, MD, board-certified orthopedic foot and ankle surgeon, patients in Miami and Doral, Florida receive individualized treatment plans designed to relieve pain, improve function, and slow the progression of arthritis.
What Is Foot & Ankle Arthritis?
Arthritis describes inflammation and degeneration of the joints. In the foot and ankle, this can affect multiple joint areas, including:
- Ankle joint
- Subtalar joint
- Midfoot and forefoot joints
- Big toe (first metatarsophalangeal) joint
Common types of arthritis include:
- Osteoarthritis (wear-and-tear)
- Post-traumatic arthritis (following injury)
- Rheumatoid and inflammatory arthritis
- Gout and other crystal arthropathies
Arthritis pain often begins gradually but can become persistent and debilitating without proper care.
Symptoms of Foot & Ankle Arthritis
You may be experiencing arthritis if you have:
- Persistent joint pain or aching
- Stiffness and limited motion
- Swelling or tenderness around joints
- Difficulty walking, standing, or wearing shoes
- A grinding or catching sensation in the joint
These symptoms can significantly impact mobility and quality of life if left untreated.
Treatment Options for Foot & Ankle Arthritis
Non-Surgical Care
Before considering surgery, Dr. Pino often recommends conservative treatments that may include:
- Custom orthotics or supportive bracing
- Activity modification
- Anti-inflammatory medication
- Corticosteroid or biologic injections
- Physical therapy to improve strength and flexibility
These treatments can help manage pain, reduce inflammation, and improve function for many patients.
Surgical Solutions
When arthritis symptoms are severe, persistent, or unresponsive to nonsurgical care, surgery may be recommended to relieve pain and restore function. Surgical options may include:
- Joint preservation procedures
- Arthroscopic debridement
- Joint fusion (arthrodesis)
- Joint replacement (arthroplasty)
Dr. Pino carefully evaluates your symptoms, imaging studies, activity goals, and overall health to determine the most appropriate surgical approach.
Benefits of Arthritis Treatment
Effective arthritis care aims to:
- Reduce chronic pain and inflammation
- Improve joint motion and function
- Enhance walking ability and balance
- Protect remaining joint cartilage
- Improve quality of life and activity levels
Whether through nonsurgical care or advanced surgery, the goal is to help you regain comfort and mobility.
Your Arthritis Treatment Journey
Before Treatment
Your care begins with a thorough evaluation by Dr. Alejandro Pino. He listens to your symptoms, reviews imaging studies (such as X-rays, MRI, or CT scans), and assesses your gait and joint mechanics. Together, you’ll explore treatment options and create a plan that aligns with your goals.
During Treatment
The approach varies depending on your condition and the recommended treatment. For non-surgical care, this may involve targeted therapy and pain-reducing interventions. For surgery, the procedure will be explained in detail and tailored to your unique anatomy and diagnosis.
Dr. Pino uses advanced techniques and evidence-based care to optimize outcomes and improve joint comfort.
After Treatment
After treatment, whether conservative or surgical, your recovery plan will include activity modifications, physical therapy as indicated, and follow-up visits to track progress. Dr. Pino’s team provides ongoing support to help you return to daily activities with improved comfort and confidence.
Frequently Asked Questions
What causes arthritis in the foot and ankle?
Common causes include age-related wear-and-tear (osteoarthritis), prior injuries, repetitive stress, inflammatory arthritis, and certain metabolic conditions like gout.
Can arthritis be cured?
Arthritis cannot be “cured,” but symptoms can be effectively managed. Through a combination of nonsurgical and surgical treatments, many patients experience significant pain relief and improved function.
When is surgery necessary?
Surgery may be recommended when pain significantly limits daily activities, conservative care has failed to provide relief, or structural damage to the joint is advanced.
Will I be able to walk normally after treatment?
Many patients experience improved walking ability and comfort after appropriate treatment. Dr. Pino will discuss expected outcomes based on your individual condition and treatment plan.
Why Choose Dr. Alejandro Pino?
Dr. Alejandro Pino, MD is a board-certified orthopedic foot and ankle surgeon skilled in both conservative and advanced surgical treatments for arthritis. Patients throughout Miami and Doral, Florida trust his precise surgical judgment, personalized care, and compassionate approach.
Arthritis care with Dr. Alejandro Pino, MD offers comprehensive treatment for painful foot and ankle arthritis, focusing on relieving inflammation and pain, preserving joint function, and improving mobility for patients in Miami and Doral, Florida.
Call (305) 596-2828 (305) 596-2828 to book your appointment today.
