Rheumatoid Arthritis of the Foot and Ankle Treated in Louisiana
If you’ve been diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis (RA), you may be facing new challenges, especially when it affects your feet and ankles. With the right care, you can still live a full life and do many of the things you enjoy. LA Pain Doctor helps patients in Metairie, LaPlace, Harvey, Hammond, and Lutcher, LA manage RA-related foot and ankle pain.
Request an AppointmentHow RA Affects the Feet and Ankles
Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disease in which the immune system attacks the lining of the joints, causing inflammation, swelling, and pain. The small joints of the feet are often among the first affected. Over time, ongoing inflammation can damage cartilage and bone, loosen ligaments, and change the shape of the foot.
Common Symptoms
- Pain, warmth, and swelling in the toes, ball of the foot, or ankle
- Morning stiffness that lasts longer than 30 minutes
- Pain when walking, standing, or wearing shoes
- Bunions, hammertoes, or a flattening arch
- Painful calluses and pressure points
- Symptoms that affect both feet at the same time
Managing RA Foot and Ankle Pain
RA is best managed with a team approach. Your rheumatologist treats the underlying disease, while our providers focus on relieving pain and protecting your mobility. Your plan may include targeted joint injections to reduce inflammation in painful foot and ankle joints, carefully monitored pain medication management, and guidance on supportive footwear, orthotics, and activity.
Because RA can affect other joints, we also treat pain in the knees, hands, and shoulders. Patients with heel pain may also have plantar fasciitis, which responds to its own treatments.
Tips for Living Well With RA
Staying active with low-impact exercise, maintaining a healthy weight, wearing cushioned, supportive shoes, and pacing your activities can all reduce strain on painful joints. Read more in our guides on living with rheumatoid arthritis and exercising with chronic pain, and explore our knee and leg pain treatment options.
Frequently Asked Questions About Rheumatoid Arthritis Foot and Ankle Pain Treatment
Why does rheumatoid arthritis affect the feet?
RA often targets the small joints of the hands and feet first, causing inflammation that leads to pain, swelling, and stiffness.
Can RA change the shape of my feet?
Yes. Long-term inflammation can lead to bunions, hammertoes, and a flattened arch.
How can I relieve RA foot pain?
Joint injections, supportive footwear, orthotics, medication, and low-impact exercise can all help.
Do you work with my rheumatologist?
Yes. We coordinate with your rheumatologist so pain management fits alongside your disease treatment.
Are joint injections safe for RA?
Targeted injections can safely reduce inflammation in specific painful joints. Your provider will discuss how often they can be used.
What shoes are best for RA?
Shoes with a wide toe box, good cushioning, and arch support usually provide the most comfort.
Where can I get treatment?
LA Pain Doctor treats RA-related foot and ankle pain at our offices in Metairie, LaPlace, Harvey, Hammond, and Lutcher, LA. Call (504) 229-4866 - Metairie Office , (504) 229-4866 - Laplace Office , (504) 229-4866 - Harvey Office , (504) 229-4866 - Hammond Office or (504) 229-4866 - Lutcher Office to schedule.
Keep Moving With Less RA Pain
Get help managing rheumatoid arthritis in your feet and ankles. Call (504) 229-4866 - Metairie Office , (504) 229-4866 - Laplace Office , (504) 229-4866 - Harvey Office , (504) 229-4866 - Hammond Office or (504) 229-4866 - Lutcher Office or request an appointment online today.