Arthritis

Rheumatic conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis, psoriatic arthritis, osteoarthritis and many other conditions can impact your foot function and can cause pain and discomfort.

These conditions are also associated with changes in blood flow, increased risk of ulceration, and neuropathy.

Your podiatrist can help you manage your foot health with routine treatments, footwear, and specialized accommodative orthotics where clinically indicated.

More commonly women are more likely than men to develop most forms of arthritis, particularly osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis, though the exact reason can vary by specific factors like age and/or hormone levels.

Reasons for this increased risk in women is generally linked to hormonal differences, such as oestrogen's protective effects on cartilage. Additionally, anatomical factors like joint alignment and biomechanics may contribute to a higher susceptibility in women.