Rheumatoid Arthritis Of The Foot

From WebHealth

[edit] Rheumatoid Arthritis Of The Foot

Rheumatoid arthritis of the feet accounts for a significant portion of foot deformities. Multiple joints of the feet are affected such as the metatarsophalangeal joints, which are carrying most of the load from the body weight. The forefoot is painful and stiff. On examination it is tender when the foot is squeezed across the foot (when "transverse" pressure is exerted). The hindfoot can also be a cause of foot pain from arthritis and joint inflammation in the subtalar joint.

On top of this the tendon sheaths around the ankle area can also get inflammed ("ankle synovitis"), which leads to more foot pain, ankle pain and joint stiffness. With chronic rheumatoid arthritis eventually grotesque deformities of the forefoot and toes occur, which often require some surgical treatment and/or orthotic shoes. In this image the arrows point to erosions of the metatarsal heads. The diagnosis of rheumatoid arthritis of the foot is based on a blood tests that is positive for rheumatoid factor as well as characteristic X-ray images as mentioned under this link to the rheumatoid arthritis chapter.

Treatment: A multidisciplinary team with a physician, surgeon, podiatrist, occupational therapist and physiotherapist will be the best approach to treat the patient. Calluses, corns, ingrowing toenails are usually taken care of by the podiatrist. Orthotic devices can take the pressure away from inflamed areas and help to make the gait healthier. These changes can lead to better tissue viability , joint mobility and improvements of circulation. Anti-inflammatories can help with joint inflammation and synovitis. A surgeon can help with foot deformities, but the least invasive procedure that will alleviate the patient's foot pain should be chosen (Ref. 1, p.23).

Home page

Arthritis

Foot pain

References:

1. ABC of rheumatology, second edition, edited by Michael L. Snaith , M.D., BMJ Books, 1999. Chapter 5.

2. The Merck Manual, 7^th edition, by M. H. Beers et al., Whitehouse Station, N.J., 1999. Chapter 270.

3. Wheeless' Textbook of Orthopaedics: http://www.wheelessonline.com/

4. The Merck Manual, 7^th edition, by M. H. Beers et al., Whitehouse Station, N.J., 1999. Chapter 60, p.487.

5. Goldman: Cecil Textbook of Medicine, 21st ed.(©2000)W.B.Saunders

6. Ferri: Ferri's Clinical Advisor: Instant Diagnosis and Treatment, 2004 ed., Copyright © 2004 Mosby, Inc.

7. Rakel: Conn's Current Therapy 2004, 56th ed., Copyright © 2004 Elsevier