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Rheumatoid arthritis, or RA, is an autoimmune condition that results in mild to severe inflammation of the joints and surrounding tissues.<\/p>\n
Over time, cartilage in the joints and soft tissues in the foot can erode or deform, leading to dislocations, the development of nodules, and pain while walking or moving. A staggering 90 percent of rheumatoid arthritis sufferers ultimately seek medical care for pain in the foot or heel that is caused by this deterioration combined with the everyday impact of walking or standing.<\/p>\n
The arch of the foot (or Plantar Fascia) is responsible for distributing the body\u2019s weight properly and absorbing the impact of physical activity. When this arch deteriorates or becomes inflamed through injury or overuse, Plantar Fasciitis (or Plantar Fasciosis<\/a>) often develops.<\/p>\n Many forms of arthritis, including rheumatoid arthritis, can make a person more susceptible to developing Plantar Fasciitis. The fatty pad of the heel that helps protect and cushion the plantar fascia may erode or shift as rheumatoid arthritis progresses. In other cases, structures in the ankles, calves, and legs that support the arch may erode or shift, placing additional strain and impact on the arch. And the hallmark inflammation of rheumatoid arthritis can lead to small tears and degradation of the plantar fascia itself, causing the arch to flatten and fall.<\/p>\n Since individuals who suffer from rheumatoid arthritis may suffer from a whole host of aches and pains throughout the body, heel pain is often dismissed as yet another symptom of RA. However, by recognizing the symptoms of plantar fasciitis for what they are, it\u2019s possible to support and cushion the compromised arch and make walking and moving much less painful.<\/p>\n If you\u2019ve been diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis, it\u2019s important to keep a close eye on symptoms that may point to Plantar Fasciitis. The sooner the damaged arch is treated, the sooner relief is possible. Keep an eye on the following symptoms:<\/p>\n Plantar Fasciitis can go undiagnosed in rheumatoid arthritis patients for far too long, since many of the symptoms of Plantar Fasciitis mimic the symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis. Your doctor will ask questions about your symptoms and may perform X-rays to rule out possible fractures.<\/p>\n It\u2019s also important to understand that heel pain may be an early sign of rheumatoid arthritis itself. In some case, pain in the heel, ankle, or ball of the foot can be early indicators of this autoimmune disorder. If your symptoms of swelling, inflammation, or stiffness aren\u2019t just localized to the heel or foot, or if you\u2019re also experiencing fatigue or fever, it\u2019s important to seek medical attention.<\/p>\n While Plantar Fasciitis is one of the most common foot conditions associated with rheumatoid arthritis, it isn\u2019t the only one.<\/p>\n Rheumatoid arthritis sufferers are also prone to corns and bunions, as the bones and tissues in the foot shift and the gait changes, placing pressure on different areas of the foot. Corns are small, hard protrusions that develop as a result of friction and pressure. Bunions<\/a> are a condition in which the big toe crosses with the second toe. Both conditions can make walking or wearing shoes more difficult.<\/p>\n Rheumatoid arthritis is also strongly associated with claw or hammer toes<\/a>, in which the toes curl inward and become very stiff. Pain the ball of the foot, or metatarsalgia<\/a>, is another common condition for RA sufferers.<\/p>\n Most of these conditions, like Plantar Fasciitis, can be significantly improved with conservative, at-home treatments:<\/p>\n While rheumatoid arthritis is a long-term struggle for most people, heel pain can often be significantly improved. Keep the following tips for treatment in mind as you manage your RA alongside symptoms of heel or foot pain:<\/p>\n Orthotics:<\/strong> Orthotics are one of the best ways to gently cushion and support the arch, lifting it to an ideal height for bearing weight. Steer clear of cheap grocery store orthotics, and opt for insoles made especially for Plantar Fasciitis<\/a>. For especially painful or sensitive feet, Gel Heel Seats<\/a> can be especially helpful.<\/p>\n Heel Wraps:<\/strong> Wearing shoes can be painful for individuals with corns or bunions. Wrapping the heels<\/a> can support the arch while allowing for sandals or bare feet.<\/p>\n Icing:<\/strong> Icing can temporarily calm inflamed and irritated tissue in the plantar fascia by numbing and blocking the pain signals from nerves<\/p>\n Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs:<\/strong> It\u2019s important to clear any medications you\u2019re taking with your doctor or rheumatologist, but NSAIDS like Aleve or Ibuprofen can help with heel pain strikes.<\/p>\n Rest:<\/strong> Spending enough time off your feet can be difficult with the demands of life, work, and family, but it is one of the best ways to help the plantar fascia heal.<\/p>\nCommon Signs and Symptoms of Plantar Fasciitis<\/h2>\n
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Other Foot Conditions That Affect Rheumatoid Arthritis Sufferers<\/h2>\n
Treating Heel Pain Alongside Rheumatoid Arthritis<\/h2>\n