Foot health

This chapter discusses and emphasizes the effects that a complex multisystem disease such as rheumatoid arthritis (RA) has on a weight-bearing structure. The foot is frequently described by people with RA as ‘the first to be affected but the last to be treated’. An overview of subjective and objective assessment tools, including clinical and imaging modalities is reviewed. This chapter encourages the clinician to ask the important question, ‘Have you had any problems with your feet recently?’ and provides a simple assessment approach and knowledge of further assessment strategies to ensure that the foot is adequately assessed to avoid long-term complications. The relevant non-surgical foot health management strategies have been highlighted for people with RA who frequently present with both inflammatory and mechanical disease in their feet, with the aim of minimizing the impact on the foot and ankle.