Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic condition that attacks the healthy joints throughout the body. It typically begins in the joints in the extremities, which is why your feet and ankles are prone to the condition. Roughly 90 percent of individuals diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis will develop symptoms in the foot or ankle during the course of the disease. If you have questions about rheumatoid arthritis of the ankle or foot and the treatment options available, contact Atlanta foot and ankle surgeon, Dr. Lance Silverman today!
Rheumatoid Arthritis Causes and Symptoms
Rheumatoid arthritis is considered an autoimmune disease, which means it causes the immune system to attack its own tissues. RA often affects the joints, cartilage and ligaments in the feet and ankles. The exact cause of the condition is not known, but doctors believe it could be caused by aging, acute trauma, or genetic predisposition.
Symptoms of the condition include:
- Swelling
- Pain
- Joint stiffness
- Loss of foot mobility
Diagnosing and Treating Rheumatoid Arthritis of the Foot or Ankle
Left untreated, rheumatoid arthritis will continue to progress, and this will lead to more pain and dysfunction, including the onset of conditions like claw toe or hammer toe. Because of this, it is imperative that you seek out an orthopedic specialist to help diagnose and treat the condition.
After arriving at their office, your doctor will talk with you about your symptoms, family history and your experience with the condition. From their, they will conduct some physical tests to look for flexibility, swelling and which movements cause pain or discomfort. Your doctor may then confirm their suspicions with imaging tests like an X-ray, CT scan or MRI.
Depending on your specific situation, you may be referred to a rheumatologist for treatment. However, a good portion of cases can be managed by your orthopedic specialist. They will likely prescribe one or more of these common nonsurgical treatment options:
- Immune system medications or anti-inflammatory agents
- Rest
- Non-direct impact exercises (biking, swimming, elliptical, etc.)
- Ice
- Orthotic inserts to take pressure off certain bones in your feet.
- Braces
- Corticosteroid injections
Foot Arthritis Doctor in Atlanta
Surgery may be advised for certain patients, although surgery will not reverse the effects of rheumatoid arthritis. Surgery is performed to address cartilage damage or to fuse two affected joints together to inhibit painful movement. The operation will limit flexibility in the toe joint, but it should help provide pain relief. Other surgical operations may be performed, but their necessity is determined on a case by case basis.
For more information about rheumatoid arthritis treatment, reach out to Dr. Silverman today.
