According to Dr. Tatiana Wellens and Dr. Maria Jaramillo-Dolan of Central Florida Foot and Ankle Center in Winter Haven, Lakeland, and Davenport, FL, rheumatoid arthritis causes joint lining inflammation, resulting in swelling, pain, and stiffness. This inflammation may damage ligaments and cartilage and even soften bones.

Rheumatoid arthritis (more commonly referred to as RA) is an autoimmune disease that commonly affects the feet, causing significant pain and disability. Let’s learn more.

Understanding Rheumatoid Arthritis 

While the cause of RA is not entirely understood, the condition is thought to be caused by a genetic element that a virus infection or even bacteria can trigger. RA commonly impacts the small joints found in one’s hands/wrists and feet but can potentially affect the ankles and may also impact larger joints (i.e., knees or elbows). 

According to the HSS, about 20% of those who experience foot/ankle symptoms will be first diagnosed with RA, and 90% of those with RA will face foot and ankle symptoms as they manage the disease.

Common Symptoms of Rheumatoid Arthritis

The following are considered the most common RA symptoms:

• Pain, swelling, and stiffness across many joints in the feet – usually affecting both feet.
• Red/warm near or around affected joints.
• Walking becomes challenging, particularly when traversing uneven surfaces/an incline.

The Impact of RA on the Feet

Foot and ankle symptoms from rheumatoid arthritis are considered relatively common. More specifically, rheumatoid arthritis causes:

• Inflammation/Damage to Joints — RA causes synovial inflammation (i.e., the lining of the joints), which can cause a thickening and or the production of excess joint fluid, leading to limited/restricted motion. This causes many symptoms, including swelling, pain/discomfort, and stiffness. 
• Damage to Cartilage/Bones — RA’s inflammation causes damage to cartilage while softening joint bones. Eventually, they may cause a joint deformity and reduce one’s ability to be mobile.

Podiatric Diagnosis/Treatment

Like most medical conditions, early diagnosis in Winter Haven, Lakeland, and Davenport, FL, is critical for effectively managing rheumatoid arthritis. Other treatment options may include, in part:

• Specific medications.
• Orthotics.
• Braces.
• Lifestyle changes (i.e., routine exercise and giving up cigarettes) are proactive measures to manage symptoms.

In more severe cases of RA, surgical options may be presented as an alternative.

Contact a Podiatric Specialist Today

If you are experiencing discomfort/pain in your feet, contact Dr. Wellens and Dr. Jaramillo-Dolan at the Central Florida Foot and Ankle Center, who can help diagnose/manage the condition and its symptoms. 

To make an appointment today, contact our facilities at (863) 299-4551 in Winter Haven, Lakeland, and Davenport, FL.