Rheumatoid arthritis is the most common form of inflammatory arthritis. It is estimated that up to 90% of RA patients will experience foot deformity and foot pain to some extent. RA causes instability in the rear foot, and this could cause deformity in the forefoot, leading to increased pressure under the ball of the foot region while the patient is on their feet.

The joints which are most commonly affected in RA are: the smaller joints of the toes, the ‘metatarsophalangeal (MP) joints’ in the forefoot. Symptoms begin with swelling and inflammation in the joints and can go on to cause joint pain, joint deformity and joint erosion. RA can start changing the shape of your foot. 

Insoles and footwear play a very important role in reducing foot pain in RA patients thus giving them more confidence to go about their daily activities. With the use of correctly designed insoles and their early use supplemented with successful medical treatment can slow down the development of joint changes. The insoles provide support to the joints of the foot, offload excessive pressure zones and help improve overall foot function.