Problems with feet and RA
Flat feet about 4-5 years ago. Also problems with tendons also which may have contributed to my flat feet. I was unaware that RA can cause my problems until I read about it recently.
Was very active. Now painful to walk. I’m trying various arch support sneakers. Not have much success.
Any suggestions are gratefully accepted.
RA runs in my family.
, forgive me for asking a basic question, but have you seen a podiatrist about your foot problems? Also, have you looked into specialized inserts for more customized arch support? I have used custom made inserts for 30 years. And, while the initial investment was a bit high (but mostly covered by insurance), I have been able to use the same arch supports for 25 years.
Also, our community members recommend a variety of footwear and it can be a bit of trial and error to find the best shoe for you and your needs. Here's one piece about the struggle to find comfortable shoes. Definitely check out the many member comments at the end of the article for suggestions for comfortable shoes -- https://rheumatoidarthritis.net/living/springtime-sandal-shopping. I hope this helps and I hope you get more helpful feedback from other community members.
Best, Erin, RheumatoidArthritis.net Team Member.
Hi
. Sorry you are having these foot and ankle issues. You definitely are not alone and our contributor Monica wrote about her issues with flat feet here: https://rheumatoidarthritis.net/living/the-curse-of-the-flat-footed-floogie. I definitely concur with on the potential benefits of seeing a podiatrist. My wife, Kelly Mack (a contributor here), was diagnosed at age two, over 40 years ago - before modern treatments. She sustained foot damage to the point that she can't balance or walk without shoes. A podiatrist has enabled her to get the right shoes and inserts to enable some walking and help quite a bit with her ankles. This article from the American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons offers some really good information on how RA impact the feet and ankles and potential treatments (note: the information is good, but they're still surgeons so the discussion leans a little in that direction): https://orthoinfo.aaos.org/en/diseases--conditions/rheumatoid-arthritis-of-the-foot-and-ankle. Hope this is helpful and that you get some relief soon. Please feel free, if you like, to let us know how you are doing and ask further questions. Best, Richard (RheumatoidArthritis.net Team)
