Rheumatism and feet

Many rheumatic illnesses lead to foot ailments. This folder provides some useful advice that we hope will be helpful and healing.

The rheumatic foot:
The foot is a fantastic instrument. A sensitive interaction between bones, joints and muscles keeps us upright, in movement and in balance. Rheumatic pain and swollen joints disturb this interaction, causing us to place an unnatural strain on our feet. This can subsequently lead to misalignment and repetitive stress injuries in other joints. It is therefore important for persons with rheumatism to begin practicing preventive foot care and wearing correct footwear at an early stage.

Symptoms
The joints are swollen, warm, tender and painful. These are typical signs of rheumatism. At different stages of the illness different joints in the body are affected. The feet, specifically the main joint in the big toe (Hallux Valgus) are the most affected at the start of the illness. Foot problems should therefore be identified early so that everything possible can be done to take care of and maintain the foot’s structure, form and functionality.

Foot care – a good habit that feels good!

Daily foot care:

• Examine the feet. Wash them and dry well between the toes.
• Rub a good lotion into the feet.
• Change socks, preferably every day and wear wool or cotton.
• Do foot exercises.

Weekly foot care:

• Footbath, 5 min. in lukewarm water.
• Clip the nails straight across.
• File off calloused skin carefully using a foot file.

Otherwise: