According to the Arthritis Foundation, 2.3 million adults and 10,300 children in Michigan alone suffer from rheumatoid arthritis, a disease that causes a slow and painful deterioration of the body’s joints, bones, ligaments, and cartilage. Although the disease affects millions of people all over the country, there is still no known cure.

However, there are some treatments such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs to temporarily reduce inflammation and pain. Each year Michigan hosts the Detroit Walk to Cure Arthritis to raise awareness for the vast population suffering for the disease without a cure. Each participant is asked to raise at least $100 to help raise awareness, research funding, and funds to lobby for bills such as the Patients’ Access to Treatments Act.

Rheumatoid Arthritis is a painful and limiting condition. If you are suffering from rheumatoid arthritis, contact  Dr. Carl Ginsberg of Pennsylvania. Our doctor will 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. Severe pain and immobility are caused by an inflammation of the lining of your joints, and in worse cases the destruction of the joint’s cartilage and bone can occur.

Rheumatoid Arthritis of the Feet
Although RA usually attacks multiple bones and joints throughout the entire body, many cases result in pain in the foot or ankle area. Pain will often initially present in the toes before the condition worsens and spreads throughout the entire foot.

Symptoms

• Swelling and pain in the feet
• Stiffness in the feet
• Pain on the ball or sole of the feet
• Joint shift and deformation

Diagnosis
Quick diagnosis of RA in the feet is important so that your podiatrist can treat the area effectively. Your doctor may ask you about your medical history and lifestyle to help determine possible causes of your RA.

Treatment
Unfortunately, there is no cure for RA, so treatment options are designed to specifically target the symptoms of it, most notably the pain it causes. Two types of anti-inflammatory drugs – non-steroidal or NSAIDs and corticosteroids – may be prescribed by your doctor. In some severe cases where the joints are too badly damaged, surgery may be an option. As always, speak with your podiatrist to help determine the appropriate treatment options available to you.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Jenkintown, PA. We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.