Salt Lake City Rheumatoid Arthritis

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Are you experiencing pain in the joints of both of your feet? Rheumatoid arthritis is one possible cause. Rheumatoid arthritis impacts close to one percent of the population, and is more likely to afflict women than men. Rheumatoid arthritis can cause foot deformities and other problems with the feet and symptoms are most likely to develop between age 40 and 60.

Rheumatoid arthritis can cause significant impairment, so it is important for patients to get help from a foot doctor who can assist in managing this chronic condition when it impacts the foot or ankle. Patients in and around Salt Lake City can work with Elizabeth E. Auger, DPM to develop a comprehensive plan for managing rheumatoid arthritis and maximizing comfort and mobility.

Are You Suffering from Rheumatoid Arthritis in Salt Lake City?

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) develops when the autoimmune system attacks ligaments and cartilage. Many joints can be attacked by the autoimmune system, but small joints in both the hands and feet are especially vulnerable to attack. More than 90 percent of RA sufferers will experience foot and ankle pain, and usually both feet will be affected in the same areas.  Genetics may make someone more susceptible to RA, but a trigger could be required to activate the disease.

Symptoms of Rheumatoid Arthritis

Rheumatoid arthritis causes stiffness, pain, and discomfort in multiple joints.  The specific limitations that RA can cause will vary depending upon the part of the body that is affected. For example, if your ankle joints are attacked by the autoimmune system, you may have a hard time with stairs and inclines when you first develop RA. As the disease progresses, your pain will become worse and it can be hard to walk or stand

How Does Dr. Auger Treat Salt Lake City Rheumatoid Arthritis?

If you are experiencing joint pain, a proper diagnosis is essential before treatment begins. Dr. Auger will examine your feet and ankles, looking at the skin and the shape of the foot. Foot deformities and the location of calluses on the foot can provide clues into your condition. You may also undergo tests to assess your tenderness to pressure, or may need X-rays, CT-scans, or other imaging tests.

After RA is diagnosed, Dr. Auger will work with you to develop a plan to manage this condition. Ice, medication, the use of orthotics, limiting activity, lace-up ankle braces, corticosteroid injections, and surgical procedures such as fusion are all possible treatment options available from a skilled podiatrist.

Contact  Elizabeth E. Auger, DPM Today

Dr. Auger provides comprehensive RA management solutions for patients in Salt Lake City who are suffering from rheumatoid arthritis. We have three convenient office locations in West Jordan, Millcreek, and Sandy. To find out more about how Dr. Auger can help you, call us today at (801) 619-2170 for a same-day appointment.