Rheumatoid Arthritis

Rheumatoid Arthritis

Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disease, as opposed to the traditional ‘wear and tear’ arthritis (osteoarthritis). It occurs when your body’s immune system attacks your own cells at the lining of the joints. This causes pain, swelling and inflammation. Rheumatoid arthritis isn’t limited to just the lower limbs but affects the whole body, primarily the small joints in the hands and feet.  

What causes Rheumatoid Arthritis?

In an RA flare, the body’s immune system attacks the joint capsule lining, called the synovial membrane. As the lining becomes inflamed, it is no longer able to produce the synovial fluid which works to lubricate joints and nourish the cartilage and bone ends. This means the joints stiffen and mobility becomes harder. With repetitive inflammation during flares, the cartilage and connective tissues become damaged and the joint capsule can lose its ability to stabilise the joints.  While the exact reason for the body getting confused and attacking its own cells at the joints is not well understood, it has been thought that hereditary factors may increase your chance of developing it. Other contributing factors include smoking and the female gender. Flares often occur without an identifiable cause, though some causes have been attributed to stress, illness and injury. Some of those affected report that cold temperatures and weather affect their symptoms.  

What are the symptoms?

Rheumatoid Arthritis typically presents symmetrically. These flares come and go unpredictably and can affect many joints at once. The effects of RA progressively worsen and the joints incur more damage, until the joints are left with very little movement. This is why management has a big focus on slowing down the progression of symptoms and maintaining as much mobility as possible. Generally, symptoms include:

• Swelling and inflammation in the joints
• Pain, tenderness and discomfort
• Stiffness and limited movement in the joints
• Rheumatoid nodules at the feet
• General fatigue
• Changes to the shape of the joints over time

How is Rheumatoid Arthritis treated?

Your GP may be able to provide medication and other therapies to help manage the symptoms of RA and slow its progression. These will likely involve anti-inflammatory medications. As Podiatrists, we look at ways to reduce pain in the joints of your feet and legs, improving your comfort and general quality of life. Custom-prescribed orthotics are often used to increase comfort, absorb shock, and decrease the load through high-pressure areas and joints at the feet. Keeping you comfortable and mobile allows you to continue to carry out your daily activities. Exercises can also help you maintain your muscle strength and range of motion at the joints, slowing down the progression of symptoms.