Is pain in the mid-section of your foot giving you grief? It could be a sign of changes in your joints.
Where is the “midfoot”?
The midfoot is the middle region of the foot, where a cluster of bones form the arch on the top of the foot.
This cluster of bones (the cuboid, navicular and cuneiform bones) form the midtarsal joint (Chopart joint) and tarsometatarsal joints (TMTJs).
Role of the Midfoot:
Provide stability
Transmit and attenuate force when walking
Allow the foot to accommodate to uneven surfaces
Causes of Midfoot Arthritis
Primary osteoarthritis with articular cartilage damage. Poor biomechanics and flattening of your arch can further worsen the pain.
Secondary osteoarthritis – related to previous trauma to the joint such as a fracture or dislocation – even if well managed initially.
Inflammatory conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis or psoriatic arthritis.
Treatment of Midfoot Arthritis
Pain medication – topical or oral anti-inflammatories
Custom orthotics are important:
Medial arch support reduces joint movement during weight bearing
A stiffer soled shoe + arch support further limits overloading
Shoe modification with a rocker bottom shoe transmits force efficiently through the joints
Ultrasound guided steroid injections can be useful when isolated joints are affected
Surgical intervention:
When non-operative treatment fails