Morpho-structural characteristics of feet in patients with rheumatoid arthritis: A cross sectional study

Abstract

Objective: The aim of this study was to evaluate and classify the types and incidences of foot deformities in patients with Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA). Methods: A cross-sectional study with convenience sample was obtained of 220 patients with foot pain and RA classification criteria (approved by the American College of Rheumatology and the European League against Rheumatism in 2010). A series of outcomes were assessed to measure the morphological characteristics of the feet. The Foot Posture Index (FPI), the Manchester Scale of Hallux Valgus and the Nijmegen classification of forefoot disorders were assessed. Results: The most common foot posture according to the FPI assessment are the pronated position in the left foot (32.7% of participants) and the neutral position in the right foot (34.1% of participants). The disease progression causes more developed and serious foot deformities. 1.82% of patients present a severe level of Hallux Valgus before 10 years of disease evolution whereas 4.09% of patients present a severe level of Hallux Valgus after 10 years of disease evolution. Conclusions: The most common foot type in patients with RA is the pronated foot type with deformities in the MTP joints without Hallux Valgus. However, a percentage of patients with RA presents supinated foot type. The evolution of the disease shows some morphological changes in terms of patient's feet. The presence of more developed foot deformities is increased, such us Hallux Valgus or MTP joints deformity (Grade 3 in the Nijmegen classification scale).

Impact of Multiple Sclerosis on Foot Health and Quality of Life: A Prospective Case-Control Investigation

“…Consistent with similar studies in subjects with poor foot wellbeing ( 38 ), foot pain ( 39 ), and joint disorders such as rheumatoid arthritis ( 40 – 42 ), our results also refer to the importance of physical activity as a fundamental aspect for improving QoL in subjects with MS, and in those who present deterioration.…”

Relationship between Kinesiophobia, Foot Pain and Foot Function, and Disease Activity in Patients with Rheumatoid Arthritis: A Cross-Sectional Study

“…The previous studies analyzed pain in the upper limbs, as opposed to the present study, which analyzes both general and specific foot-related pain, which is one of the most affected areas in patients with RA. It has been shown in previous studies focused on RA that patients suffer from pain due to the disease and to structural deformities [ 7 , 8 ], provoking a physical detriment in patients with RA [ 9 ]. It should be pointed out that feet are one of the most important areas of the human body due to their role in the locomotor system [ 34 ] and, therefore, in the performance of physical and other activities, meaning that if patients present with foot pain, their activities are going to be reduced [ 6 ].…”

“…During the course of the disease, 90% of the patients suffer from foot symptoms, which are often severe [ 5 , 6 ]. These symptoms are associated with an osteoarticular deformation [ 7 ] modifying the symmetry of the feet [ 8 ]. Therefore, patients with RA suffer from a detriment of their quality of life [ 9 ] and lower foot function [ 10 ].…”

Transcultural adaptation and validation of the Spanish version of the Global Pain Scale

“…In certain diseases, such as rheumatoid arthritis, patients suffer from pain due to the disease and the structural adaptations required 8–10 . These circumstances can provoke physical and emotional deterioration, impacting all aspects of daily life.…”

“…7 In certain diseases, such as rheumatoid arthritis, patients suffer from pain due to the disease and the structural adaptations required. [8][9][10] These circumstances can provoke physical and emotional deterioration, impacting all aspects of daily life. Moreover, pain in any area of the body reduces mobility, hampering, or preventing participation in recreational and social activities.…”