Rheumatoid Arthritis
Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a condition where the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks the joints. Unlike osteoarthritis, which typically affects older adults, RA can occur at any age, including in children, who may develop a form called juvenile RA. Without early treatment, RA can cause rapid and severe joint damage, leading to deformities that can significantly impact movement and quality of life.
RA can lead to major disability, and it’s a serious concern for podiatrists because more than 90% of people with RA experience symptoms in their feet and ankles. While RA is less common among Asians, it’s still important to recognize its symptoms and seek early intervention.
What are the Symptoms of Rheumatoid Arthritis?
Pain and swelling in several joints, often affecting the same joints on both sides of the body (like both wrists or both ankles)
Fever and flu-like symptoms
Stiffness in the joints, especially in the morning
Feeling very tired and/or losing weight
Lumps under the skin called rheumatoid nodules
Possible damage to organs like the eyes and lungs
If you suspect you have Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA), it’s important to see a foot specialist as soon as possible. They might use X-rays, blood tests, and joint fluid tests to accurately diagnose the condition.
How to Manage Rheumatoid Arthritis?
Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) can cause joint deformities and painful lumps called rheumatoid nodules. These issues might lead to skin irritation, forming corns and calluses, which can eventually turn into ulcers if not treated. RA can also cause inflammation in the blood vessels, known as vasculitis, leading to painful rashes and, in severe cases, reduced blood flow that can create additional foot problems.
While there is no cure for RA, podiatrists focus on reducing pain and preventing further damage to the feet. This involves:
Checking and correcting any issues with joint alignment, foot position, and posture to relieve pain and slow down deformities.
Providing custom orthotics or other shoe inserts to stabilize joints, reduce pressure on specific areas, and improve alignment.
Using treatments like shockwave therapy and electromagnetic therapy to ease pain and limit joint damage during flare-ups.
Early care from a podiatrist can help manage pain, prevent worsening of deformities, and allow you to stay active and comfortable in your daily life.
What are the Causes of Rheumatoid Arthritis
Family history (if someone in your family has RA)
Smoking
Having certain genetic traits
Being female (women are more likely to get RA)
Managing Rheumatoid Arthritis
Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) can cause joint deformities and painful lumps called rheumatoid nodules. These issues might lead to skin irritation, forming corns and calluses, which can eventually turn into ulcers if not treated. RA can also cause inflammation in the blood vessels, known as vasculitis, leading to painful rashes and, in severe cases, reduced blood flow that can create additional foot problems.
While there is no cure for RA, podiatrists focus on reducing pain and preventing further damage to the feet. This involves:
- Checking and correcting any issues with joint alignment, foot position, and posture to relieve pain and slow down deformities.
- Providing custom orthotics or other shoe inserts to stabilize joints, reduce pressure on specific areas, and improve alignment.
- Using treatments like shockwave therapy and electromagnetic therapy to ease pain and limit joint damage during flare-ups.
Early care from a podiatrist can help manage pain, prevent worsening of deformities, and allow you to stay active and comfortable in your daily life.
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