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@slkanowitz

I have severe arthritis in my feet and can barely walk in my home at times let alone outside. Some things I do find helpful: very well cushioned shoes with ample width, shoe inserts with arches that match your own in height, even Dr Scholls are good. Diclofenac ( Voltaren) gel, OTC twice a day, rubbed in well under the arch, heat to feet, massage (heavenly), even DIY massage by rolling your foot around on a tennis ball or rolling pin. NSAIDS if you can take them. I have also had joint steroid injections at pain clinic done by anesthesiologist who injects the joints under fluoroscopy through top of foot. Not fun but can give significant relief for a few months, then repeat. Orthopedist orders which joints to inject based on xrays. Keep a cushioned gel type floor mat in front of kitchen sink. I use a walker, which helps shift some weight bearing to your arms. That might allow you to walk a bit more outside and you can sit and rest if it’s the 4 wheel type with seat. Wear warm socks 24/7. Amazon has small foam toe separators if needed to prevent calluses and blisters. Take pain med an hour before walking outside if you can get something. Lidocaine pain patches OTC cut to size under the arch provide some relief for about 12 hrs. Any brand is ok, the flexible ones may stick a bit better. Metatarsal pads if the ball of foot is painful, heel cups if plantar fasciitis a problem. I also like Sketchers and Dawgs shoes ( inexpensive, online, very cushioned). Spend 5-10 minutes in morning getting your feet ready for the day. It pays off. Whew! What we must do to keep mobile! PS make sure RA is not a culprit and if it is, get adequately treated by a good rheumatologist!

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Replies to "I have severe arthritis in my feet and can barely walk in my home at times..."

You covered the bases! I was going to suggest Salonpas for the top of the foot but that was on your list (Lidocaine patch cut to size you want). That works wonders for me. Mine are the "Salonpas 4" which are the strongest over-the-counter w/o Rx and can be obtained at Costco. I wish I knew something to suggest for the toes. I have 2 prescription pain meds for that, in pill form, but my problem on the bottoms and toes is peripheral neuropathy.
That was a very complete list - thank you for all the suggestions!