Midfoot arthritis

Midfoot arthritis affects the small joints in the middle of the foot. As the joint surfaces become damaged, the foot can become painful and stiff, particularly when walking or moving over uneven ground.

What is midfoot arthritis?

Midfoot arthritis affects the small joints in the middle of the foot. As the joint surfaces become damaged, the foot can become painful and stiff, particularly when walking or moving over uneven ground.

What causes it?

There may be more than one cause or contributing factor. These can include:

  • Wear and tear within the joints
  • A previous injury or fracture
  • Rheumatoid or another inflammatory form of arthritis
  • Tibialis posterior tendon dysfunction, which can allow the arch to flatten

 

What are the symptoms?

Everyone experiences symptoms differently, but you may notice:

  • Aching in the middle of the foot during walking or activity
  • Reduced flexibility, especially on uneven surfaces
  • A firm or bony swelling on top of the foot
  • A flatter-looking arch or change in foot shape
  • Shoes rubbing across the top of the foot

 

How is it diagnosed?

Your consultant will examine your foot and discuss your symptoms. X-rays can confirm arthritis, while a CT scan may be used to show exactly which joints are involved.

We’ll explain any tests clearly and talk you through what the results mean for you.

How is it treated?

Treatment depends on the cause, the severity of your symptoms and the activities you want to return to. We’ll help you understand your options before you decide what happens next.

  • Pain relief or anti-inflammatory medicine, if advised
  • Stiff-soled or rocker-bottom shoes
  • Changes to activities that aggravate pain
  • Image-guided joint injections
  • Physiotherapy to maintain calf flexibility and reduce strain through the foot

Recovery goals after treatment for midfoot arthritis

Phase 1

Early recovery

Reduce pain and swelling Protect the affected area Keep moving safely as advised

Phase 2

As your symptoms improve

Restore comfortable movement Rebuild strength and control Return gradually to everyday tasks

Phase 3

Returning to full activity

Return to suitable exercise or sport Regain confidence in your movement Continue rehabilitation or monitoring as advised

Working with professionals and teams

Our consultants support professional athletes, sports teams and active individuals with the assessment and treatment of meniscus injuries. Working closely with physiotherapists, strength and conditioning specialists and the wider care team, they develop personalised treatment plans that support a safe return to sport or everyday activities.

 

The same specialist expertise and collaborative approach are available to every patient, whatever your activity level or goals.

 

Working with professionals and teams

How to pay

We offer flexible options depending on how you choose to access care at Fortius. Whichever option you choose, we’ll help make the process clear and straightforward from the start.

Private medical insurance

Private medical insurance

If your care is covered by private medical insurance, we’ll usually invoice your insurer directly. Please check your policy in advance and request an authorisation code if your insurer requires one. You’ll be responsible for paying any policy excess or costs that aren’t covered by your insurance.

Paying for yourself

Paying for yourself

You don’t need private medical insurance to access care at Fortius. If you’re paying for your own treatment, our team will explain the costs clearly and provide a personalised quote before you decide whether to go ahead.

 

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