Rheumatoid Arthritis is a debilitating disease that affects as much as 1.5 million people across the nation. RA is a chronic disease that requires extensive treatment over an elongated period of time. Though there have been drugs on the market since the last 15 years, these drugs can be costly to use. These particular RA drugs helped slow the progression of the disease and reduced the need for surgery. However, there are four new RA drugs that are soon to hit the market and that may be more cost-effective than current drugs. These four new drugs are expected to receive FDA approval and expect to aid in the prevention of RA growth in patients.
Because RA affects more than just your joints, including the joints in your feet and ankles, it is important to seek early diagnosis from your podiatrist if you feel like the pain in your feet might be caused by RA. If you have any concerns about your feet or ankles, contact Dr. Yeon A. Shim of Roselle Podiatry Group. 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. 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.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Roselle, NJ. We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.
