Are severe foot pain, swelling, and heat common symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis?
Yes, foot and ankle pain and swelling are actually the first signs of rheumatoid arthritis in about 20 percent of people with RA. The heat you're experiencing is likely related to inflammation in the joints.
RA commonly affects several areas Show Full Answer
Are severe foot pain, swelling, and heat common symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis?
Yes, foot and ankle pain and swelling are actually the first signs of rheumatoid arthritis in about 20 percent of people with RA. The heat you're experiencing is likely related to inflammation in the joints.
RA commonly affects several areas of the foot:
- Big toe: This joint bears body weight, making every step painful
- Ball of the foot: Often affected with bunions and claw toes
- Midfoot: The joints halfway between toes and ankle
- Top and bottom of feet: Pain can occur throughout
Other common RA-related foot symptoms include bunions, hammertoes, dislocated toe joints, flatfoot ankle pain, and heel or Achilles tendon pain.
Relief options to consider:
For immediate relief, try icing your feet three or four times a day for 20 minutes (don't apply ice directly to skin). Many myRAteam members find topical products helpful, like arnica lotion applied before bed and upon waking.
Gentle exercises that don't put pressure on feet, like swimming or recumbent biking, can help maintain strength and flexibility.
Since all joint changes in RA are irreversible, it's important to see a rheumatologist who can diagnose the specific cause with a physical exam and imaging tests, and recommend appropriate treatment to reduce pain and swelling.
January 7
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