This refers to special care with feet that have become misshapen as a result of Rheumatoid Arthritis, Osteoarthritis and gout.
- Joint deformities can make shoe fitting difficult and build-up of callosities that can result in ulceration.
- These secondary problems such as ulcers or corns that have been caused by foot deformities will be treated.
- We can provide protective shields for toes or padding to relieve pressure and reduce friction and hard skin formation
- Orthotics can be made following a Biomechanics assessment which will reduce pressure on affected joints when walking.
- Professional advice on fitting and styles of shoe available may help many of these problems to be minimise
Two common arthritic foot complaints that may be inherited or caused by trauma:
Hallux Rigidus/Limitus.
This is a degenerative arthritic disorder of the big toe joint. It can be painful and causes stiffness in the joint making it harder to bend the toe.
Hallux Valgus (Bunion)
This is a deformity of the big toe joint which pushes it over to the smaller toes causing pain and inflammation , swelling and stiffness around the joint especially where there is pressure from footwear. As a result of these changes often the second toe becomes ‘hammered’.