Understanding Rheumatoid Arthritis and Foot Health

What is Rheumatoid Arthritis?

• Autoimmune condition
• Body attacks healthy tissue
• Primarily affects joints
• Long-term inflammatory disease
• Can affect anyone at any age
• More common in women and older adults

Impact on Feet

• Causes joint inflammation
• Leads to bone and joint damage
• Reduces range of motion
• May cause deformities
• Can develop rheumatoid nodules
• Varies in severity between individuals

Rheumatoid vs Osteoarthritis

Rheumatoid Arthritis

• Inflammatory condition
• Attacks healthy tissue
• Autoimmune response

Osteoarthritis

• Non-inflammatory
• Wear-and-tear damage
• Movement-related issues

Common Symptoms

• Joint pain and warmth
• Reduced mobility
• Walking difficulties
• Joint stiffness
• General fatigue
• Fever
• Anaemia
• Energy loss

Management Strategies

During Flare-ups

• Rest affected joints
• Minimise inflammation
• Follow medical advice

Between Flares

• Gentle exercise:

• Slow walking

• Yoga

• Tai chi

• Water walking

Podiatric Care Options

• Professional footwear guidance

• Custom exercise programs

• Orthotic therapy for:

• Pain relief

• Mobility support

• Gait improvement

• Laser therapy treatments

• Surgical intervention when needed