Midfoot Arthritis: Symptoms, Causes & Treatments

By Glenn G. Gabisan, MD

Midfoot Arthritis

The midfoot is composed of multiple bones that provide flexibility on uneven surfaces and rigidity for push-off power when walking. Midfoot arthritis is characterized by pain and swelling that gets worse when you stand or walk. Symptoms can develop gradually over time or after a traumatic injury, such as a Lisfranc injury.

Symptoms

Midfoot arthritis causes discomfort during prolonged walking or standing. You may have pain while pushing off from heel to toe during walking, or when you take your first few steps in the morning or after sitting (also known as "start-up" pain). Arthritic bone spurs at the top of the foot may be irritated by shoe-wear pressure.

Causes

Midfoot arthritis can be the result trauma or gradual "wear and tear". 

Diagnosis

Physical examination may show tenderness or pain with passive motion of the arthritic midfoot joints. Weight-bearing X-rays may show joint space narrowing and bone spurs.

Non-Surgical Treatment 

Non-surgical Treatment Midfoot arthritis often can be managed without surgery. Stiff soled shoes, rocker-bottom shoes, or rigid carbon fiber insoles (https://amzn.to/4cPpXL4) limit motion at the arthritic joints and may alleviate pain when walking. Avoidance of high impact exercise such as running or jumping and switching to low impact exercise such as cycling and swimming may be beneficial. Weight loss, anti-inflammatory medications, steroid injections may also alleviate symptoms. 

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Surgical Treatment

Surgical Treatment Midfoot fusion eliminates painful motion at the arthritic joints. The joints are fused together with plates, screws, or staples and weightbearing is avoided until adequate healing. The decision to have surgery is an individual one. Surgery should only be considered if non-surgical treatment options are unsuccessful.

If you have any questions about midfoot arthritis, please contact Dr. Gabisan at 732-530-4949.