Arthiritis
‘Arthro’ means joint and ‘itis’ means inflammation. Arthritis is a group of diseases affecting the joints, causing them to be stiff, inflamed and often painful. It is the greatest cause of disability in the UK, affecting approximately 1 in 20 under 40 year olds and 1 in 3 over 60 year olds. There are many kinds of arthritis; common types include osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis and gout.
Causes of Arthritis
- Joint instability
- Age related changes
- Metabolic (gout), autoimmune (rheumatoid) and age related (osteo)
- Genetic predisposition
- Stress
- Age related changes
Helpful Advice
- Try to keep your weight controlled and eat a normal balanced diet. There is no real evidence to suggest specialist diets will affect or improve arthritis.
- If you have a foot deformity, visit a chiropodist/podiatrist for treatment and advice.
- See your GP for an assessment if your joints get painful or tender regularly.
- If you have had an arthritis diagnosis and your feet are painful see a Chiropodist/Podiatrist for further assessment.
Footwear Recommendations
- Choose flat roomy shoes that are supportive. If joints are deformed reduce pressure with a soft upper. Ensure the shoes give adequate support.
- Extra support for weakened joints is important and can be provided by a firm heel back. Low heels and lace up styles are preferable, again for the best support. Many people are also affected with arthritis in their hands – in this case you will find touch-fastening styles are easier to adjust.
- Underfoot cushioning such as insoles can help reduce pain underfoot and protect exposed swollen joints.