✅ Medically reviewed by Dr. Thomas Biernacki, DPM — Board-Certified Podiatrist · Last updated April 6, 2026
Treatment for Arthritis in the Top of the Foot in Howell & Bloomfield Hills, MI
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Top Of The Foot Arthritis (Causes, Symptoms & Best Treatment)
Arthritis in Top of Foot Treatment Video
Top Of The Foot Arthritis – Learn simple and easy techniques that you can use to severely decrease the amount of pain in the top of your foot 100% NOW!
https://youtu.be/MptFiAYrdqcDegenerative Arthritis Top of Foot Causes:
Top of the Foot Arthritis Overview:
- The top of the foot is at risk for nerve pain and osteoarthritis.
- Arthritis can put pressure on the nerves on top of the foot, especially against the top of the shoe.
- Consider these treatment guides below.
What Is Top Of The Foot Arthritis?
Top of the foot arthritis is the inflammation of joints. There are many types of arthritis like rheumatoid, traumatic, and gout, but the most common at the top of the foot is due to a condition called osteoarthritis.
- Osteoarthritis is the classical “wear & tear arthritis.”
- This is due to the breakdown of cartilage in the joints over time.
- The cartilage lacking bone now rubs against itself, causing cracking and fraying.
- This leads to the thickening of the joint over time as new bone attempts to reform itself.
Symptoms:
- Aching & throbbing pain.
- Redness due to inflammation.
- It can become prominent in severe cases.
- Worse with more weight-bearing.
- Worse with increased activity.
- Better at rest.
- If nerve impingement is present: also numbness, burning & tingling.
Causes:
The most common causes are:
- Old age – >40- 50 years old.
- Increased weight.
- Flat foot.
- A very high arch or supinated foot type
- A bunion can be associated with this.
- Breakdown of cartilage.
- Bone on bone rubbing.
- Traumatic injury (broken bone) to the joint.
Treatment of Top of The Foot Arthritis
Treating top of the foot pain is a two-stage process:
- The first stagae consists of decreasing the pain and inflammation. This will let you relive the tightness through the plantar fascia, the ankle, and the Achilles tendon.
- The second stage focuses on offloading the foot and making sure the inflammation does not develop further.
- The backbone of treatment then involves supporting the foot and maintaining flexibility through the site.
Most Common Causes:
Dorsal Big Toe Osteoarthritis (AKA Hallux Limitus/ Rigidus):
Jump to the treatment guide for hallux rigidus.
Dorsal Metatarsal Cuneiform Joint
Jump to the top of the foot pain treatment guide.
Top of the Ankle Pain
Jump to the top of the ankle pain treatment guide.
Other Mid Foot Pain In This Area
- Ganglionic cyst – A soft bump.
- Metatarsal Exostosis – A hard bump.
- Medial Dorsal Cutaneous Nerve Irritation – Numb and Tingling.
Dorsal Big Toe Osteoarthritis (AKA Hallux Limitus/ Rigidus):
Jump to the treatment guide for hallux rigidus.
Why Patients Across Michigan Trust Us
- Experienced, Board-Certified Foot Doctors Our podiatrists have years of experience treating complex foot and ankle conditions.
- Personalized Treatment Plans Every patient receives a customized care plan based on their specific condition, lifestyle, and goals.
- Advanced Treatment Options We offer both conservative and surgical solutions using modern techniques and technology.
- Convenient Michigan Locations Serving patients in Howell and Bloomfield Hills with accessible, patient-friendly clinics.
- Focused on Long-Term Relief Our goal is not just temporary relief, but lasting comfort and improved mobility.
Our board-certified podiatrists specialize in foot and ankle care.
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Book NowFAQ: Top of Foot Arthritis
What causes arthritis on the top of the foot?
Arthritis on the top of the foot is commonly caused by wear and tear of the joints (osteoarthritis), previous injuries, repetitive stress, or inflammatory conditions like rheumatoid arthritis. Over time, cartilage breaks down, leading to pain, stiffness, and swelling.
What are the symptoms of top of foot arthritis?Common symptoms include aching or sharp pain on the top of the foot, swelling, stiffness, reduced mobility, and discomfort when walking or wearing certain shoes.
How is arthritis on the top of the foot treated?Treatment may include anti-inflammatory medications, custom orthotics, supportive footwear, physical therapy, and activity modifications. In more advanced cases, your foot doctor may recommend injections or surgical options.
Can custom orthotics help with top of foot arthritis?Yes. Custom orthotics help redistribute pressure, support proper foot alignment, and reduce stress on arthritic joints, which can significantly ease pain and improve mobility.
When should I see a foot doctor for top of foot arthritis?You should see a podiatrist if you experience persistent pain, swelling, or stiffness that interferes with daily activities. Early treatment can slow progression and help you stay active and comfortable.
Is Arthritis on the Top of Your Foot Making Every Step Painful?
Don’t ignore stiffness, swelling, or aching on the top of your foot. The expert podiatrists at Balance Foot & Ankle Specialist in Howell and Bloomfield Hills provide advanced, personalized treatment to help you move comfortably again.
Early treatment can reduce pain, improve mobility, and prevent further joint damage. Book your appointment and take the first step toward lasting relief.
Schedule Your Arthritis Evaluation Today (810) 206-1402 Is Arthritis on the Top of Your Foot Making Every Step Painful?
Don’t ignore stiffness, swelling, or aching on the top of your foot. The expert podiatrists at Balance Foot & Ankle Specialist in Howell and Bloomfield Hills provide advanced, personalized treatment to help you move comfortably again.
Schedule Your Arthritis Today (810) 206-1402Related Treatment Guides
Medical References & Sources
- American Podiatric Medical Association — Patient Education
- American Orthopaedic Foot & Ankle Society — Foot Conditions
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Our board-certified podiatrists treat this condition at two convenient locations. Same-day appointments often available.
Arthritis on Top of Your Foot?
Dorsal midfoot arthritis causes pain and bone spur formation. Our podiatrists provide effective management with orthotics, injections, and surgical options when needed.
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Clinical References
- van Dijk CN, et al. Osteophytes of the ankle and hindfoot. Foot Ankle Clin. 2006;11(2):253-262.
- Rao S, et al. Shoe inserts alter plantar loading and function in patients with midfoot arthritis. J Orthop Sports Phys Ther. 2009;39(7):522-531.
- Jung HG, et al. Results of operative treatment of midfoot arthritis. Foot Ankle Clin. 2011;16(1):37-48.
Dr. Tom Biernacki, DPM is a double board-certified podiatrist and foot & ankle surgeon at Balance Foot & Ankle Specialists in Southeast Michigan. With over a decade of clinical experience, he specializes in heel pain, bunions, diabetic foot care, sports injuries, and minimally invasive surgery. Dr. Biernacki is a member of the APMA and ACFAS, and his patient education content on MichiganFootDoctors.com and YouTube has reached over one million views.
Frequently Asked Questions
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