Joint pain in the feet can be a sign of rheumatoid arthritis, or RA, an autoimmune condition that causes the immune system to mistakenly attack healthy joint tissues. RA leads to inflammation, stiffness, and swelling in various joints, including the feet. The condition commonly affects the small joints of the feet, causing discomfort when walking or standing. The exact cause of RA is unknown, but it is believed to involve a combination of genetic and environmental factors that trigger an abnormal immune response. Other factors, such as infections or hormonal changes, may also contribute to the development of the disease. As the condition progresses, joint damage and deformities may occur, further intensifying foot pain and affecting mobility. If you have foot pain, it is suggested that you contact a chiropodist who can provide an accurate diagnosis and treatment.

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune disorder in which the body’s immune system attacks its own otherwise healthy joint lining or synovium. While RA can affect any joint in the body, it often affects the small joints of the feet and the ankle joint. If you’re dealing with RA in your lower limbs, please consult with Cynthia Chan, B.Sc., D.Ch from Healthy Advantage Foot & Orthotic Clinic. Our practitioner can help you maintain the health of your lower limbs and your mobility. 

Symptoms of RA primarily affect the joints of the feet and may include:

• Pain

• Swelling

• Stiffness 

• Redness

• Warmth

• Difficulty walking

• Gait changes

• Bunions

• Hammertoes 

Treatment

While there is no cure for RA, your chiropodist can help you manage the health of your feet and maintain your mobility while living with this condition. Possible treatments include wearing orthotics, doing foot and ankle exercises, resting the feet, taking anti-inflammatory medications, getting steroid injections, and wearing braces for foot and ankle pain. In advanced cases of RA, joint replacement surgery may be helpful for mobility. Bunions, hammertoes, and other deformities can be corrected with surgery as well. 

If you have RA, please feel free to contact our office located in . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.