Custom Orthotics for Effective Management of the RA Foot

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a painful chronic condition that affects all the joints in the body and in many patients, foot pain is one of the initial symptoms. Along with structured treatment, foot orthotics is an effective option to manage ankle conditions due to RA. In NY health care centers, physicians provide custom orthotics to help align the foot/ankle, correct or manage foot deformities, and improve overall function of the foot.

Functional Orthotics to Relieve Foot Pain

Pain, swelling, and stiffness in the ankles are one of the most common symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis. In this chronic condition, symptoms generally appear in both feet and affect the same joints on each foot. Untreated arthritis can progress fast, making activities such as climbing stairs and even simple walking and standing difficult and painful. Some of the common foot conditions that RA patients present with are inflammation and pain in the ball of the foot, arch collapse, and a positional deformity known as rear foot valgus.

Orthotic devices are custom-molded, individually designed shoe inserts that can be used to treat these conditions of the foot and ankle quite effectively. Foot Levelers orthotics is a widely recommended option. These functional orthotic soles for casual shoes support all the muscles and bones that make up each foot and are a proven solution for ankle pain. The use of these functional devices helps stabilize the rearfoot, control midfoot collapse, and reduce pain and irritation. Benefits include:

• Creates a balanced foundation by supporting all three arches of the foot
• Ensures maximum shock absorption for heel strike, extra propulsion, and more stability
• Corrects posture and provides long-term preventive protection
• Constructed to ensure user comfort

In a multispecialty health care center, custom orthotics are prescribed as part of the treatment plan for joint pain which may include physical therapy, medication, injections, chiropractic adjustments, TENS, and other conventional nonsurgical techniques.

Digital Imaging Ensures Customized Orthotic Soles

Custom orthotics by Foot Levelers are specifically manufactured to accommodate the contours of the patient’s feet. A digital foot scan is first performed to evaluate the feet’s structure and analyze the areas that are painful. The physician will then use the foot impression to review and identify the right orthotic option based on the patient’s condition, activity level, and type of shoes worn. In a reliable health care center, care will be taken to ensure that functional foot orthotics for RA patients are fabricated with a firm plate to maintain proper medial arch support and an optimum position.

As a leading multi-specialty healthcare center in Brooklyn, New York City, HealthQuest offers quality care and sophisticated services. Our unique approach to patient care ensures fast return to a pain-free lifestyle.