Rheumatoid nodules on the feet can be really uncomfortable, especially large ones — and they're more common with RA than many people realize. The good news is there are several treatment options available.
Here's what can typically be done:
- DMARDs (disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs) — These medications can help Show Full Answer
Rheumatoid nodules on the feet can be really uncomfortable, especially large ones — and they're more common with RA than many people realize. The good news is there are several treatment options available.
Here's what can typically be done:
- DMARDs (disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs) — These medications can help shrink nodules and slow further growth
- Corticosteroid injections — A doctor can inject these directly into the nodule area to reduce local inflammation
- Surgical removal — This is an option, though doctors sometimes caution against it since nodules can grow back after removal
It's also worth knowing that if methotrexate is part of a current treatment plan, it can sometimes actually *cause* nodules to grow faster — something worth discussing with a rheumatologist. Foot nodules in particular need close monitoring. Because they're in a high-pressure area, they carry a higher risk of infection. Watch for any discoloration, swelling, or itching, and flag these to a doctor right away, as antibiotics may be needed.
A myRAteam member shared that large foot nodules even forced them to go up two shoe sizes — so footwear adjustments can also help manage day-to-day discomfort while pursuing treatment.
Bringing this up with a rheumatologist soon is strongly recommended, especially given the size of the nodules described.
May 25
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