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Severe metatarsal osteoarthritis

Posted , 3 users are following.

Linds267
Linds267

Hi all, I wondered if anyone else has severe metatarsal osteoarthritis? I was diagnosed over 6 months ago and nothing works to relieve the pain. I can't have physio or a steroid injection as the doctor says it's to far gone for that. Even being at home with no shoes on my feet the pain is still constant. Does anything with the same arthritis have any tips that may help me please. I've been told that an operation on metatarsal is extremely rare. 😔

1 like, 5 replies

5 Replies

  • Chisi
    Chisi Linds267

    Posted

    Hi Linds

    so very sorry to hear this.

    My husband had all his met heads taken out (except for big toes) many years ago now so I am surprised it hasn't been offered to you.

    He suffered terribly but maybe not to your extent. He felt he always needed shoes on for support but he walked more and more on his heels till he was advised the op could solve his problems. He got both feet done at the same time and has never looked back.

    Please try again to mention the op, of course it's not guaranteed, what op does but you seem to be suffering so much.

    Best of luck.

    • Linds267
      Linds267 Chisi

      Posted

      Hi Chisi

      Thanks for your reply. Mine is in my big toe sadly. It's hurts with shoes on or off to be honest. I'm just plodding on and putting up with it just now but it does seem to be getting worse and I'm getting a lot of cramping which is excruciating 😕

  • Anhaga
    Anhaga Linds267

    Posted

    Have you seen a specialist who could prescribe orthotics which could, in the right shoes, relieve some of the pressure?  Also, cramping can be caused by a lack of magnesium.  Try some Epsom salts foot baths (or a soak in a bathtub for more relaxation) a couple of times a week.  Also, if you can, gently manipulate the joints with your hands, try to regain some of the natural motion which your pain has probably been preventing.  You could do this after your feet have been relaxed in warm water perhaps?  Unconscious tension can contribute mightily to pain, so even if you can't get a medical intervention in a timely manner maybe some of these alternatives will help to reduce your pain, even for a little while?  All the best.  

    • Linds267
      Linds267 Anhaga

      Posted

      Thank you I shall try the salts, as for trying to manipulate the joints o can't see me doing that as I can barely even stand to touch the top of my foot where it is. There is no cartridge left just bone rubbing on bone.

    • Anhaga
      Anhaga Linds267

      Posted

      If you have been taking NSAIDs for pain, do try to discontinue them.  They interfere with cartilage regeneration.  

      I agree with those who say there must be something that can be done. There are amazing replacement joints now, maybe they've developed one for your problem.  

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