Understanding Rheumatoid Arthritis and Its Impact on Feet and Ankles

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic inflammatory disorder that primarily affects the joints, causing pain, swelling, and stiffness. While it's commonly associated with hands, knees, and other major joints, the feet and ankles can also be significantly impacted. Understanding how RA affects these areas can help individuals manage their symptoms more effectively and maintain a better quality of life.

 

What is Rheumatoid Arthritis?

 

Rheumatoid arthritis is anautoimmune condition where the body's immune system mistakenly attacks the synovium—the lining of the membranes that surround the joints. This leads to inflammation, which can result in joint damage over time. Unlike osteoarthritis, which is primarily wear-and-tear related, RA can occur at any age and affects both men and women, although it is more common in women.

 

How RA Affects the Feet and Ankles

 

The feet and ankles consist of numerous small joints and structures that can be susceptible to the effects of RA:

 

1. Joint Inflammation:

   - RA can lead to inflammation in the joints of the feet and ankles, making them painful and swollen. The metatarsophalangeal joints (MTP joints), which connect the toes to the foot, are especially vulnerable.

 

2. Morning Stiffness:

   - Many individuals with RA experience morning stiffness in their feet and ankles, which can make getting out of bed a challenge. This stiffness can last from several minutes to a few hours, impacting mobility.

 

3. Foot Deformities:

   - Chronic inflammation can lead to deformities such as bunions, hammer toes, or flat feet. These changes not only affect foot structure but can also lead to altered gait and increased difficulty in walking.

 

4. Ankle Problems:

   - Swelling and inflammation can also affect the ankle joints. Individuals may experience pain during movement or while bearing weight, limiting their ability to engage in physical activities.

 

5. Reduced Mobility:

   - As RA progresses, mobility can decline due to the pain and deformities in the feet and ankles. This loss of mobility can lead to sedentary behavior and contribute to additional complications such as obesity, depression, and cardiovascular issues.

 

Managing Symptoms in the Feet and Ankles

 

While rheumatoid arthritis can present many challenges for those with symptoms in the feet and ankles, there are effective management strategies:

 

1. Medication:

   - Disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs) and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can help reduce inflammation and alleviate pain.

 

2. Physical Therapy:

   - A physical therapist can develop a customized exercise program that focuses on maintaining flexibility and strength in the foot and ankle area. Low-impact exercises like swimming or cycling can also be beneficial.

 

3. Orthotics and Footwear:

   - Supportive footwear and custom orthotics can help alleviate pressure and provide stability to the feet, reducing pain and preventing deformities.

 

4. Cold and Heat Therapy:

   - Applying ice packs can reduce inflammation and pain, while heat can help ease stiffness. Both methods can be used as needed for symptom relief.

 

5. Surgery:

   - In severe cases where joint damage is extensive, surgical options may be considered to relieve pain or correct deformities.

 

6. Lifestyle Changes:

   - Maintaining a healthy weight, engaging in regular low-impact physical activity, and practicing good foot hygiene can also play significant roles in managing symptoms.

 

If you or a loved one is experiencing symptoms in the feet or ankles due to RA, schedule an appointment with Dr. Gireesh Reddy or Dr. Sirisha Pokala at Restore Foot & Ankle Specialists by calling (469) 573-3427 or by booking online.