Rheumatoid Arthritis, or RA for short, may develop when your immune system attacks your joint lining tissue, causing painful inflammation and stiffness. To help detect if this condition is affecting you, note the following symptoms: pain or stiffness in the toe joints, aching or soreness in the feet after regular activity such as walking or standing for long periods of time, and swelling in your toe joints or ankles. To help relieve these symptoms, it is advised to wear open-toed shoes, get regular sleep, quit smoking, reduce stress, and keep your joints warm. It is important to note that symptoms don’t always show up right away, which is why it is recommended that you see a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and advised recovery regime.

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 Tanisha Richmond, DPM of Richmond Foot & Ankle, LLC. 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 Dayton, OH . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.