It is a chronic, disabling systemic disease characterized by inflammation of the lining (synovium) of the joints. This leads to progressive damage to the joints resulting in pain, loss of function and disability.
About 0.8% of the UK adult population is affected. Any joint may be affected but involvement of feet and hands is more common.
Management of Rheumatoid arthritis include medication to ease the pain and slow the progression of disease. Surgery is needed in some cases for failure of medical treatment and to correct severe painful deformities to help with pain and mobility.
The clinical pictures and radiographs below, show involvement of feet with this disabling condition.
Rheumatoid Foot
Rheumatoid Foot
Rheumatoid Foot
Radiograph of Rheumatoid Feet
