Midfoot Arthritis Treatment in Fairfax, VA
Arthritis in the joints across the top of the foot, causing arch pain and a bony bump, treated with supportive shoes, orthotics, injections, and fusion when needed.
Overview
The midfoot is a group of small, tightly connected joints that form the arch and transfer force from heel to toes. When cartilage in these joints wears down, standing and walking become painful. Over time, the arch may flatten and a bony prominence can form on top of the foot.
Symptoms
- Aching pain across the top or middle of the foot
- Pain that worsens with standing, walking, or climbing
- A bony bump on top of the foot that rubs against shoes
- Swelling
- Gradual flattening of the arch
Causes and risk factors
- Prior midfoot injury, especially Lisfranc injuries
- Flat feet or posterior tibial tendon dysfunction
- Inflammatory arthritis
- Diabetes and neuropathy (Charcot changes)
- Age-related wear
Diagnosis
Weight-bearing X-rays show which joints are involved and how much the arch has collapsed. CT, MRI, or a diagnostic injection can pinpoint the painful joint before surgery.
Treatment
- Conservative: stiff-soled shoes, rocker soles, and padding over the bony bump
- Orthotics: custom orthotics to support the arch and limit painful motion
- Injections: image-guided corticosteroid injections to calm flare-ups
- Surgery: fusion of the painful joints, with bump removal and arch realignment when needed (Reconstructive Surgery & Trauma)
When to see us
Schedule a visit at our Fairfax office if midfoot pain limits your daily activity, your arch seems to be changing, or shoes are rubbing on a new bump.
Our approach
Midfoot fusion and realignment are part of the reconstructive work both physicians trained in through advanced fellowship. Because midfoot collapse can be linked to diabetes, their limb preservation experience also informs care for at-risk patients.
Frequently asked questions
Will I lose motion after a midfoot fusion?
Very little. The midfoot joints naturally move only slightly, so most patients don't notice a difference once healed.
Do shoes really make a difference?
Yes. A stiff, rocker-bottom sole reduces how much the arthritic joints bend with each step, often relieving much of the pain.
Why does diabetes matter here?
People with diabetic neuropathy can develop rapid midfoot collapse. Any new swelling or warmth in the foot should be seen promptly (Diabetic Foot Care & Limb Preservation).