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Real members of myRAteam have posted questions and answers that support our community guidelines, and should not be taken as medical advice. Looking for the latest medically reviewed content by doctors and experts? Visit our resource section.

Does anyone else have a lot of pain in and swelling in the balls of their feet?

A myRAteam Member asked a question 💭
Brookville, PA
May 3, 2024
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Answer Summary

Members confirmed that pain and swelling in the balls of their feet is a common and often debilitating symptom of rheumatoid arthritis, with... Read more

Members confirmed that pain and swelling in the balls of their feet is a common and often debilitating symptom of rheumatoid arthritis, with many describing it as their first sign of the disease and noting that damage can persist even in remission. Several members shared practical relief strategies including switching to wide, supportive shoes like OrthoFeet with customizable insoles, icing and massaging feet daily, rolling a frozen can or syrup bottle under the foot to release tight tendons, and applying topical treatments like Theraworks, Arnicare, or MagniLife pain-relieving spray. A recurring theme was frustration with medical providers who acknowledge the pain is RA-related but offer little help, coupled with community encouragement to prioritize comfort over style and never go barefoot, even first thing in the morning.

A myRAteam Member

I have pain in the feet, swelling under my feet so I ice and massage and wear excellent shoe support , very important!!
💃💃RAWarroirs!

May 4, 2024
A myRAteam Member

If you can go see a podiatrist he will help you with all the pain and maybe recommend orthotics

May 3, 2024
A myRAteam Member

Hi Warriors,
I use a Caro Syrup bottle to roll back and forth with my feet, to massage out tight tendons, which cause pain. Also, some members roll a cold drink can to help relieve soreness. Theraworks helps, as well as massaging in either Arnicare or lavender cream. Dragon's Numbing Gel can also help.
Hope this helps.

May 8, 2024
A myRAteam Member

That’s where my RA started. And the damage is done now. Even though I am considered in remission, the balls of my feet still hurt. The rheumy’s use something called DAS-28. Disease Activity Score in 28 joints. It goes as far as the knee joints but doesn’t include the feet and ankles. Not sure why, probably because we use are feet constantly. I grew into an extra wide shoe due to the overstretched ligaments when I was in full blown inflammation. I used OrthoFeet. Found it on Amazon. Each pair of shoes come with different size insoles to either build or take out of the shoe. I now have different size feet, so I use more inserts the my shorter foot. The shoes won’t win any style points but at this point, I am building for comfort.

May 3, 2024
myRAteam

If you're experiencing pain and swelling in the balls of your feet, it could be due to several reasons, such as calluses which are thickened skin from rubbing or pressure typically found on the balls of the feet. It's important to address foot pain and swelling, especially if it persists. Here are a few steps you might Show Full Answer

If you're experiencing pain and swelling in the balls of your feet, it could be due to several reasons, such as calluses which are thickened skin from rubbing or pressure typically found on the balls of the feet. It's important to address foot pain and swelling, especially if it persists. Here are a few steps you might consider:

1. **Apply Ice:** To reduce pain and swelling.
2. **Elevate Your Feet:** Try to keep your feet elevated to reduce swelling.
3. **Reduce Activity:** Limit activities that put pressure on your feet until you feel better.
4. **Proper Footwear:** Ensure your shoes fit well and are appropriate for your activities.

If the pain and swelling do not improve with home care or if you have other symptoms like redness, warmth, or fever, it's important to contact your healthcare provider for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan.

May 3, 2024

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