August 20, 2013

Rheumatoid arthritis foot pain

Looking after rheumatoid arthritis foot pain is a frequent problem our podiatrists manage. There are many different types of arthritis, the most common being osteoarthritis – the gradual wear and tear of joints from age, injury and wear and tear.

However, there is a range of inflammatory arthropathies which are mercifully far rarer – but arguably more troublesome.

Rheumatoid arthritis foot pain

The most common inflammatory arthropathy is rheumatoid arthritis (RA). This is an auto-immune condition where the body is attacking its own joints as opposed to wear and tear. Rheumatoid arthritis foot pain is particularly troublesome, and RA frequently will cause significant derangement of the toes and bunion (hallux valgus) deformities.

Most patients with RA will also be under the care of a rheumatologist, who will typically use a range of medications to try and slow the progression of the disease, and reduce the pain and inflammation associated with joint damage.

rheumatoid arthritis foot pain

Rheumatoid arthritis x-ray of the foot

 

Treatment

Podiatrists will often need to be involved to manage painful lumps and ulcers underneath the forefoot, along with prescribing special footwear and orthotics to improve comfort and stability whilst walking. The goal is to keep patients ambulatory and mobile as much as possible, and delay the need for surgery if problems get too severe.

Our Dr Comfort shoes are especially well suited to the deformities associated with RA, and our on-site CAD/CAM orthotics system means we can scan, design and fit soft, custom devices in just a day or two for rheumatoid arthritis foot pain.

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