Many members of the elderly are approaching retirement. “Me Generation”They aren’t ready for slowing down even though their bodies may be. According to foot and ankle surgeons, baby boomers are more likely to seek treatment for arthritis in their feet, ankles, and toes than other generations.
“Unlike their parents, baby boomers do not accept foot pain as a natural part of aging,”John Giurini (DPM), a Boston foot and ankle surgeon and president of American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons. “When conservative treatments fail, they want to know what other options exist.”
Many boomers have high expectations after being diagnosed. Boomers might be eager to return to running and sports. There are many medical options that can be used to treat degenerative conditions like arthritis.
According to FootPhysicians.com, the big toe joint is where osteoarthritis occurs most often in the foot. Boomers who have early-stage arthritis of this joint may benefit from modern surgical procedures that provide greater pain relief and more movement.
Seniors with severe arthritis or advanced arthritis may need their joint fusion. Stronger screws and hardware now make fusions more durable, which can reduce recovery times. The promise of a new generation in big toe joint replacements is also evident.
Another prime location for arthritis is the ankles. Innovative surgical techniques enable foot and ankle surgeons, who can transplant small amounts of cartilage from one area of the ankle in patients to slow down joint deterioration.
Ankle replacements aren’t as durable as knee and hip replacements. The ankle is more difficult to replace. Because it’s smaller, the ankle moves in multiple directions.
Directions The market is flooded with better, more promising ankle implants.
Visit FootPhysicians.com for more information about osteoarthritis of foot and ankle.
