Foot Conditions That May Occur as a Result of Rheumatoid Arthritis

Jul 8, 2021
Orthopedic Surgery

Rheumatoid Arthritis and Its Impact on the Feet

Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) is a chronic autoimmune disease that primarily affects the joints. While it commonly affects the hands and wrists, the feet can also be severely impacted by this condition. In fact, up to 90% of individuals with RA experience foot-related issues at some point during the course of their disease.

Common Foot Conditions Associated with Rheumatoid Arthritis

Rheumatoid Arthritis can lead to various foot conditions, which can significantly affect a person's mobility and overall quality of life. Some of the most common foot conditions associated with RA include:

1. Rheumatoid Foot Deformities

Rheumatoid Foot Deformities are characterized by the progressive changes in the shape and structure of the foot. This can include the development of bunions, hammertoes, claw toes, and flat arches. These deformities result from the inflammation and destruction of the joints, tendons, and ligaments in the foot.

2. Toe Deformities

RA can also cause toe deformities such as hallux valgus (bunion), hallux limitus (limited range of motion in the big toe joint), and hammer toe. These deformities can lead to significant pain, difficulty in walking, and wearing shoes comfortably.

3. Subtalar Joint Involvement

The subtalar joint, located below the ankle joint, is commonly affected by RA. The inflammation of this joint can lead to stiffness, pain, and difficulty in walking, as it plays a crucial role in normal foot movement.

4. Plantar Fasciitis

Rheumatoid Arthritis can also contribute to the development of plantar fasciitis, which is the inflammation of the thick band of tissue (plantar fascia) that runs along the bottom of the foot. This condition can cause intense heel pain and make walking or standing for long periods challenging.

5. Achilles Tendinitis

Achilles tendinitis, characterized by inflammation of the Achilles tendon, can also occur as a result of Rheumatoid Arthritis. This condition leads to pain and discomfort in the back of the ankle, making activities such as walking, running, or climbing stairs quite painful.

Management and Treatment Options

Effective management and treatment of foot conditions associated with Rheumatoid Arthritis are crucial for improving function, reducing pain, and enhancing overall quality of life. Bowling Orthopaedics offers a range of treatment options tailored to each individual's unique needs. These may include:

1. Medications

Medications such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), Disease-Modifying Antirheumatic Drugs (DMARDs), and biologic agents can help reduce inflammation, manage pain, and slow down the progression of RA.

2. Orthotic Devices

Custom orthotic devices, such as shoe inserts and braces, can provide support, stability, and pain relief for individuals with foot deformities caused by RA.

3. Physical Therapy

Physical therapy plays a vital role in managing RA-related foot conditions. Therapeutic exercises, stretching, and other interventions can help improve joint mobility, strengthen muscles, and reduce pain.

4. Assistive Devices

Using assistive devices, such as canes or walkers, can help individuals with severe joint damage maintain balance and mobility while reducing pressure on the affected foot.

5. Surgical Intervention

In cases where conservative treatments do not provide sufficient relief, surgery may be recommended. Surgical options include joint reconstruction, tendon repair, or joint replacement to restore function and alleviate pain.

Conclusion

Foot conditions that occur as a result of Rheumatoid Arthritis can have a significant impact on an individual's daily life. However, with proper management and treatment from Bowling Orthopaedics, individuals with Rheumatoid Arthritis can effectively reduce pain, improve mobility, and regain their quality of life. Contact Bowling Orthopaedics today to schedule an appointment and find the best treatment option to suit your needs.

Germaine Gaudet
I appreciate the emphasis on foot health in relation to RA. It's a significant aspect that's sometimes undervalued.
Nov 7, 2023
Pat Braich
As someone living with RA, I can confirm the relevance of the content in this article. Foot health plays a significant role in managing RA, and this article addresses that well.
Nov 6, 2023
Kimball Ferris
As someone with RA, I found the information in this article to be relevant and enlightening. Foot health is an important aspect to consider in managing RA.
Oct 24, 2023
Will Learn
The impact of RA on the feet is often underestimated. I'm glad this article highlights its relevance in managing RA.
Oct 15, 2023
Matt Dylan
Understanding the foot conditions associated with RA is crucial for individuals living with this condition. Thanks for highlighting this topic.
Sep 7, 2023
Leonard Wells
RA's impact on the feet is an often overlooked aspect of the condition. This article brings important attention to it.
Aug 29, 2023
Dustin Reece
RA's impact on the feet can be significant, and it's important for individuals with RA to be aware of this. Thanks for the informative article.
Aug 20, 2023
Oksana Lobanov
The impact of RA on the feet is often underestimated. I'm glad this article highlights its relevance in managing RA.
Aug 4, 2023
Fitzroy Sanderson
It's vital for individuals with RA to understand the possible foot conditions associated with the condition. This article is very informative.
Jul 29, 2023
Robin Burkhardt
I appreciate how this article brings attention to the often overlooked connection between RA and foot conditions.
Jul 18, 2023
Alison Skinn
As someone with RA, I found this article to be quite insightful. It's important to be aware of the potential foot conditions associated with RA.
Jul 17, 2023
Pat Melton
RA's impact on the feet is something that deserves more awareness. This article provides valuable insights into the connection.
Jul 9, 2023
Ring.io Default
The impact of RA on the feet is often underestimated. This article provides valuable insights.
Jun 24, 2023
Bonnie Roper
I didn't realize the extent of foot conditions associated with RA until I read this. Thank you for sharing.
Jun 22, 2023
Brad Augustine
RA is a complex condition with far-reaching consequences. This article gives valuable information about its impact on the feet.
Jun 20, 2023
Nancy Ness
Understanding the connection between RA and foot conditions is critical. This article is a great resource for such information.
Jun 16, 2023
Franklin Diaz
I never knew RA could have such a significant impact on the feet. Thanks for the informative article.
May 21, 2023
Sheldon Miranda
I appreciate the emphasis on foot health in relation to RA. It's a significant aspect that's sometimes undervalued.
May 18, 2023
Fred Gardner
The impact of RA on the feet is a critical consideration for individuals with this condition. This article provides valuable insights.
May 18, 2023
Cheryl Goldbeck
The link between RA and foot conditions is something everyone with RA should be aware of. Thanks for addressing it in this article.
May 6, 2023
Candice Golding
RA is a complex condition indeed, and its impact on the feet is often overlooked. Thanks for bringing attention to this.
May 6, 2023
Cindy Crigler
I appreciate the detailed exploration of how RA can affect the feet in this article. It's an aspect that's often neglected.
May 1, 2023
NA
RA's impact on the feet is an often overlooked aspect of the condition. This article provides important attention to it.
Apr 16, 2023
Juanita Jump
Appreciate the insights on how RA can affect the feet. It's something people with RA need to be aware of, and this article helps with that.
Mar 12, 2023
Arun Sivashankaran
The impact of RA on the feet is a critical consideration for individuals with this condition. This article offers insightful information on the topic.
Mar 2, 2023
Tim Simmerly
As someone with RA, understanding the potential foot conditions associated with the condition is crucial. This article provides insightful information on the topic.
Feb 26, 2023
Nick Berge
The relationship between RA and foot conditions is often overlooked. Thank you for bringing attention to this in the article.
Feb 22, 2023
Undetermined
The relationship between RA and foot conditions is often understated. This article effectively brings attention to this connection.
Feb 14, 2023
Keri Holm
The impact of RA on the feet is often underestimated. I'm glad this article highlights its relevance in managing RA.
Jan 30, 2023
Antoinette McLain
RA's impact on the feet is a significant concern. This article provides important information for those affected by this condition.
Dec 26, 2022
Carla Echevarria
The impact of RA on the feet is a critical consideration for individuals with this condition. This article offers insightful information on the topic.
Dec 12, 2022
Mark Kaplan
It's important to understand the full extent of how RA can affect the body, and this article does a great job of addressing its impact on the feet.
Dec 3, 2022
Trent Lezer
RA can cause so much more than joint pain. This article sheds light on its effects on the feet.
Nov 28, 2022
Amy Wagner
I hadn't fully considered the impact of RA on the feet until I read this article. It's an enlightening discussion.
Nov 24, 2022
Vanessa Mah
As someone with RA, I can attest to the importance of understanding how it can affect the feet. This article does a great job of explaining it.
Nov 19, 2022
Ray Choi
The link between RA and foot conditions is often neglected. This article helps to address this gap in awareness.
Nov 13, 2022
Tureki
I appreciate how this article brings attention to the often overlooked connection between RA and foot conditions.
Nov 9, 2022
Manu Badlani
I hadn't fully considered how RA could affect the feet until I read this article. It provides an important perspective on the condition.
Nov 4, 2022
Steve Pethan
RA's impact on the feet is often overshadowed by its effects on the joints. This article emphasizes the importance of considering foot health as well.
Oct 23, 2022
Erica Moore
RA's effects on the feet are an important aspect that requires more attention. This article contributes to this necessary discussion.
Oct 16, 2022
Emerson Hankamer
RA's impact on the feet is a significant concern, and this article provides valuable information for individuals affected by this condition.
Oct 3, 2022
William Fennell
I appreciate the focus on foot health in relation to RA. It's a significant aspect that's sometimes undervalued.
Sep 15, 2022
Gary Schultz
The effects of RA on the feet are often underestimated. This article does a great job of highlighting their significance.
Sep 14, 2022
Francisco Diaz
The effects of RA on the feet can be profound, and it's important to recognize and address them. This article does a great job of that.
Aug 23, 2022
Lance Adamson
It's crucial for individuals with RA to monitor their feet for any potential complications. Thanks for raising awareness about this.
Aug 13, 2022
Omar Iguenaoun
I appreciate how this article brings attention to the often overlooked connection between RA and foot conditions.
Aug 11, 2022
Tine Dpooler
Learning about the potential foot conditions that may arise from RA is crucial for the community affected by this condition. Thanks for sharing this important information.
Aug 11, 2022
Lee Kunkle
RA's impact on the feet is an often overlooked aspect of the condition. This article provides important attention to it.
Aug 4, 2022
Joao Marinho
Understanding the potential foot conditions associated with RA is crucial, and this article does well in shedding light on this topic.
Jul 28, 2022
Craig Burkert
As someone with RA, the information in this article is relevant and enlightening. Foot health is an important aspect to consider in managing RA.
Jul 27, 2022
Eli Karam
As someone with RA, understanding the potential foot conditions associated with the condition is crucial. This article provides insightful information on the topic.
Jul 22, 2022
Carol Sakata
Foot conditions resulting from RA can significantly impact the daily lives of those affected. This article discusses this issue thoughtfully.
Jul 19, 2022
Anne Berrigan
As someone living with RA, I can confirm the relevance of the content in this article. Foot health plays a significant role in managing RA, and this article addresses that well.
Jul 12, 2022
Raymond Shea
I hadn't fully considered how RA could affect the feet until I read this article. It provides an important perspective on the condition.
Jun 22, 2022
Rickieta Chambers
It's important for people with RA to be aware of how it can affect their feet. Good read!
Jun 13, 2022
Troy Vitek
RA can have wide-ranging effects, and this article highlights the importance of paying attention to foot health in those with RA.
Jun 5, 2022
Phil Scheuermann
I appreciate articles like this that bring attention to lesser-known aspects of RA, such as its effects on the feet.
May 18, 2022
Pam Alspach
RA's impact on the feet is a significant concern, and this article provides valuable information for individuals affected by this condition.
May 13, 2022
Hayley Moning
Appreciate the in-depth look at how RA can impact the feet. It's a topic that more people need to be aware of.
May 12, 2022
Ray Hertz
As someone living with RA, I can attest to the relevance of this article's content. Foot health is a crucial aspect to consider in RA management.
May 8, 2022
Mark Pyne
The link between RA and foot conditions is often neglected. This article helps to address this gap in awareness.
May 4, 2022
Paul Hennessey
The relationship between RA and foot conditions is often understated. This article effectively brings attention to this connection.
May 1, 2022
Debanjan Datta
RA's effects on the feet are often overlooked. Thanks for sharing important information in this article.
Apr 23, 2022
Fabien Marrot
RA's impact on the feet is a significant concern, and this article provides valuable information for individuals affected by this condition.
Mar 25, 2022
Robert Basuel
The link between RA and foot conditions is often neglected. This article helps to address this gap in awareness.
Mar 17, 2022
Shawn Bielke
RA's effects on the feet are an important aspect that requires more attention. This article contributes to this necessary discussion.
Mar 13, 2022
Ahoora Ravandi
It's important to recognize the potential foot conditions linked to RA, and this article highlights this connection effectively.
Mar 11, 2022
Asisclo Raymundo
As someone with RA, I appreciate the focus on foot health in this article.
Jan 26, 2022
Michael Hatch
RA's effects on the feet are an important consideration that requires more attention. This article contributes to this needed discussion.
Dec 2, 2021
Amanda Patton
The impact of RA on the feet is not widely known. This article raises awareness about this crucial aspect.
Nov 27, 2021
Bob Hillin
The effects of RA on the feet are definitely noteworthy and warrant more attention. This article is a step in the right direction.
Nov 21, 2021
Art Tellez
As someone with RA, the information in this article is relevant and enlightening. Foot health is an important aspect to consider in managing RA.
Nov 15, 2021
Todd Way
Understanding the potential foot conditions associated with RA is crucial, and this article effectively sheds light on this subject.
Nov 3, 2021
Paul Luhrsen
The relationship between RA and foot conditions is often understated. This article effectively brings attention to this connection.
Oct 30, 2021
Michael Whalen
RA's effects on the feet are an important aspect that requires more attention. This article contributes to this necessary discussion.
Oct 21, 2021
Jennifer Kert Ransweiler
I found this article helpful in understanding the connection between RA and foot conditions.
Oct 15, 2021
Ed Gager
As someone with RA, understanding the potential foot conditions associated with the condition is crucial. This article provides insightful information on the topic.
Sep 1, 2021
Brandon Wong
Understanding the potential foot conditions associated with RA is crucial, and this article effectively sheds light on this subject.
Aug 28, 2021
Alexi Lauren
The implications of RA on the feet are often underemphasized. This article does well in drawing attention to this aspect.
Aug 19, 2021
Valerie Bisschop
RA's impact on the feet is an important aspect that many may not consider. This article sheds light on this often overlooked connection.
Aug 18, 2021