Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune disease that causes the body’s immune system to attack otherwise healthy cells in the lining of the joints. The joints become inflamed, leading to pain, swelling, stiffness, redness, and warmth. RA frequently affects the small joints of the feet and the ankle joints. Many foot conditions are related to RA, including dislocated toe joints, hammertoes, bunions, heel pain, Achilles tendonitis, flat foot, and ankle pain. People with RA can also develop rheumatoid nodules, lumps on the feet that can cause pain while walking or when they rub against the shoes. If you have RA, a podiatrist can help you manage this condition and maintain the proper health of your feet.
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 Jon McCreary, DPM of Fort Worth Podiatry. Our doctor 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 our office located in Fort Worth, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
