Rheumatoid arthritis, or RA, is a long-term autoimmune disease that can affect joints throughout the body. An autoimmune disease occurs when the immune system mistakenly attacks healthy tissues. RA often begins in the small joints of the hands and feet, and more than 90 percent of people with the disease eventually develop foot or ankle symptoms. In the joints, RA causes inflammation that can damage cartilage and weaken the tissues that provide support. Foot and ankle symptoms may include pain, swelling, and stiffness. Unlike some other forms of arthritis, RA commonly affects the same joints on both sides of the body.

As rheumatoid arthritis progresses, it can affect several areas of the foot and ankle. Ankle involvement may make stairs or inclines difficult, while advanced disease can make ordinary walking painful. In the middle of the foot, weakened ligaments can cause the arch to collapse and change the shape of the foot. RA can also contribute to bunions, claw toes, and pain under the ball of the foot. These structural changes may create areas of abnormal pressure and make wearing shoes uncomfortable. Joint stiffness can also increase as cartilage damage progresses, further limiting comfortable foot movement.

A podiatrist can evaluate how rheumatoid arthritis is affecting the feet and ankles by examining areas of tenderness, joint flexibility, and changes in foot shape. Imaging may also be needed to assess the bones or surrounding soft tissues. Treatment for foot symptoms depends on the location of pain and the amount of joint damage. Professional options include custom orthotics or other supportive devices to decrease pressure and improve comfort. If rheumatoid arthritis is causing persistent foot or ankle pain that affects your mobility, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for an evaluation and appropriate treatment options.

Because RA affects more than just your joints, including the joints in your feet and ankles, it is important to seek early diagnosis from your podiatrist if you feel like the pain in your feet might be caused by RA. For more information, contact one of our podiatrists of Michigan Foot and Ankle. Our doctors will assist you with all of your podiatric concerns.

What Is Rheumatoid Arthritis?

Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune disorder in which the body’s own immune system attacks the membranes surrounding the joints. Inflammation of the lining and eventually the destruction of the joint’s cartilage and bone occur, causing severe pain and immobility.

Rheumatoid Arthritis of the Feet

Although RA usually attacks multiple bones and joints throughout the entire body, almost 90 percent of cases result in pain in the foot or ankle area.

Symptoms

• Swelling and pain in the feet
• Stiffness in the feet
• Pain on the ball or sole of feet
• Joint shift and deformation

Diagnosis

Quick diagnosis of RA in the feet is important so that the podiatrist can treat the area effectively. Your doctor will ask you about your medical history, occupation, and lifestyle to determine the origin of the condition. Rheumatoid Factor tests help to determine if someone is affected by the disease.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Ferndale, and Milford, MI . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.