Rheumatological conditions are conditions that can affect the joints, muscles, bones and connective tissues. They can cause symptoms such as pain, stiffness, swelling and reduced movement, and may affect the feet and lower limbs. 

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There are many different rheumatological conditions. These include rheumatoid arthritis, gout, psoriatic arthritis, ankylosing spondyloarthritis, scleroderma and other inflammatory or autoimmune conditions. 

How can rheumatological conditions affect your feet? 

 

The feet are commonly affected by rheumatological conditions. You may experience: 

• Pain or stiffness in the feet or toes 

• Swelling around the joints 

• Changes in the shape or position of the toes 

• Changes in the structure of the foot 

• Difficulty walking or standing for long periods 

• Increased pressure on certain areas of the foot 

• Corns, calluses or other areas of irritation caused by changes in foot shape 

• Difficulty finding comfortable footwear 

The way a rheumatological condition affects your feet can vary from person to person. Early assessment and appropriate foot care can help to manage symptoms and support your mobility. 

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How can podiatry help? 

Our podiatry team specialises in foot and lower limb health and can assess how your rheumatological condition is affecting your feet. 

We will carry out a thorough assessment of your feet and lower limbs, which may include assessing your joint movement, foot structure, footwear, areas of pressure or discomfort and your neurovascular status. 

Following your assessment, we will provide personalised advice and support based on your individual needs and current evidence-based practice. 

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Treatment and advice may include: 

• Advice on suitable footwear 

• Orthoses (insoles) to support the feet and redistribute pressure 

• Bespoke padding or silicone devices to protect areas of pressure 

• Advice on managing corns and calluses 

• Exercise and stretching advice where appropriate 

• Advice on foot care and monitoring changes to your feet 

• Referral or liaison with other healthcare professionals where appropriate 

If you have a rheumatological condition and are experiencing problems with your feet, our podiatry team can assess your feet and discuss appropriate options to help manage your symptoms and maintain your mobility.  

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Book an appointment 

 

If you would like your foot issue assessed, please book an appointment with Emma, who has previously worked within an NHS rheumatology service as both a Rheumatology Podiatrist and a Rheumatology Practitioner.  

Emma can assess your feet and discuss your concerns with you, providing personalised advice and treatment options based on your individual needs.