Rheumatoid Arthritis In Feet

Rheumatology and Podiatry

In September each year, there is Rheumatoid Arthritis awareness week. So, this month’s blog will be a little about Rheumatology and Podiatry, and the role a Podiatrist can play in managing forms of arthritis, including Rheumatoid Arthritis In Feet

What is Rheumatoid Arthritis?

Rheumatoid Arthritis is the most common form of inflammatory arthritis. According to the National Rheumatoid Arthritis Society, over 90% of people with Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) will go on to develop some form of rheumatoid feet problems.

How does rheumatoid arthritis affect the feet, and how can a podiatrist help?

As with any condition, a Podiatrist should always carry out a full assessment or check-up of the feet. This could involve checking the skin integrity, foot shape, range and quality of joint movement, as well as sensory and circulatory checks. These assessments will vary depending on the presenting problems and underlying medical history.

For those patients with a diagnosis of RA, foot care is an important part of disease management. For some, it can be a simple case of nail care. If the RA affects the hands, then grip to use nail clippers can be a problem when trying to cut toenails.

For others with more severe or advanced Rheumatoid arthritis, the foot shape can change, causing pressure points which can lead to rheumatoid foot pain and problems with footwear and skin damage.

Podiatrists can advise on suitable footwear, provide and advise on pressure relief, as well as providing skin and nail treatments such as reduction of callus and corn removal, which are important for managing RA pain effectively.

How do I find a Podiatrist who can help?

All Podiatrists (Chiropodists) must be registered with the HCPC, who regulate us as a profession. Checking the HCPC register to make sure your Podiatrist/Chiropodist is appropriately qualified and trained is important.

The Royal College of Podiatry website has information on RA and Podiatry treatment, as well as links to finding a Podiatrist local to you.

If you have RA and are under a Rheumatology clinic, they may be able to refer you to a local NHS specialist Podiatry service.

If you would like to visit us for help with any foot problems, you can book online here.