According to the Chingford Women’s Study conducted in the United Kingdom, middle aged women with a higher Body Mass Index (BMI) are more likely to have joint pain in the feet. The study included 1,003 women from the ages 45 to 64 years of age and each participant was seen by a professional at least once a year for twenty years starting in 1988. In between the 10th and 15th year of the study, 639 women had described foot joint pain. Between that period of five years, 49.6% and 47.6% of women had gained or lost weight respectively. At both time periods, women with higher BMI’s had reported significant or persistent foot joint pain compared to women with lower BMI’s. The odds of developing foot pain between the 10th and 15th year of the study rose by 7.9% per unit of BMI.

Rheumatoid Arthritis and joint pain can become very painful and debilitating if left untreated. For more information about Rheumatoid Arthritis and its symptoms, consult with Dr. Sharon Pletcher of Pennsylvania. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

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. Inflammation of the lining and eventually the destruction of the joint’s cartilage and bone occur, causing severe pain and immobility.

Rheumatoid Arthritis of the Feet

Although RA usually attacks multiple bones and joints throughout the entire body, almost 90 percent of cases result in pain in the foot or ankle area.

Symptoms

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

Diagnosis

Quick diagnosis of RA in the feet is important so that the podiatrist can treat the area effectively. Your doctor will ask you about your medical history, occupation, and lifestyle to determine the origin of the condition. Rheumatoid Factor tests help to determine if someone is affected by the disease.

For more information about rheumatoid arthritis please follow the link below.

If you have any questions, please contact our office located in State College, PA. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

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