Foot problems associated with rheumatism
You may notice that your feet feel different than they used to. Getting up, walking or standing for long periods may be more difficult. Your shoes may also feel less comfortable, or your feet may tire more quickly and feel more sensitive.
In cases of rheumatism, inflammation can affect the joints in the feet and toes. This can alter the position and movement of the feet. This sometimes causes extra pressure whilst walking, which can lead to pain, pressure sores or difficulty moving.
What is it?
Rheumatism is a condition in which joints can become inflamed. This inflammation can also occur in the feet and toes.
Inflammation can cause joints to become stiffer, more sensitive or less mobile. This can sometimes lead to a gradual change in the position of the feet or toes.
Causes
When the foot is subjected to different loads, pressure builds up more quickly in certain areas. This can lead to foot problems whilst standing or walking.
Possible causes include:
- changes in the joints caused by inflammation;
- reduced mobility of the foot;
- change in the position of the foot or toes;
- more pressure on certain parts of the foot;
- change in gait;
- overuse of muscles and joints.
What do you notice?
Foot problems associated with rheumatism can develop in various ways. Symptoms often begin with minor changes to the feet or whilst walking.
You may notice that:
- the feet are sore;
- joints feel stiff;
- to position your toes differently;
- pressure sores or calluses develop;
- walking becomes more difficult;
- the feet start to feel tired more quickly;
- the shoes are less comfortable.
The impact of a healthy lifestyle and your mental health
A healthy lifestyle has a positive impact on your stamina and general health. Keeping active on a regular basis, getting enough rest and ensuring a good balance between exertion and recovery help to keep your feet as supple as possible.
Long-term pain or changes to the feet can affect mobility and daily activities. Our lifestyle coaches can support you in staying active in a healthy way and adopting daily habits that suit your level of fitness. Our occupational therapists can help to think through how to allocate activities and manage the physical demands of daily tasks. Our psychologists can provide support when long-term symptoms cause stress, uncertainty or frustration.
What can you do yourself?
There is a lot you can do yourself to support your feet as effectively as possible if you have rheumatism. Good foot care and managing the strain on your feet help to reduce symptoms.
To look after your feet properly, you can:
- wear well-fitting shoes;
- distribute the pressure on the feet as evenly as possible;
- take sufficient breaks;
- keep exercising regularly;
- check your feet every day;
- report any pressure sores or minor wounds to your healthcare professional;
- gradually build up the physical strain of walking and standing.
