Commonly known as a chronic autoimmune disease that causes pain and inflammation in the joints, rheumatoid arthritis should be treated immediately to prevent the progression of symptoms. Everyday prevention methods such as exercising or just moving around more often, reducing stress, and eating healthy foods can all help prevent the onset of rheumatoid arthritis symptoms. Natural foods such as fish oil, borage seed oil, turmeric, and Boswellia all help to treat the condition.
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 Dr. Marc R. Frankel of The Frankel Foot & Ankle Center. Our doctor will diagnose and treat your foot and ankle needs.
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 & 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 offices in Milford, PA, Middletown, NY, and Warwick, NY. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
