RHEUMATIC FOOT CARE

Podiatry for Rheumatism

Do you have rheumatism and notice stiffness, pain, or sensitivity in your feet while walking? Then it’s good to know I can help you as a podiatrist. Rheumatism can cause changes in the alignment of your feet and joints, making it harder to move. Fortunately, with the right foot care, many complaints can be relieved and worse problems can often be prevented. On this page, I’ll explain what I can do for you.

Why is foot care important when you have rheumatism?

Do you have rheumatism and notice stiffness, pain, or sensitivity in your feet while walking? Then it’s good to know I can help you as a podiatrist. Rheumatism can cause changes in the alignment of your feet and joints, making it harder to move. Fortunately, with the right foot care, many complaints can be relieved and worse problems can often be prevented. On this page, I’ll explain what I can do for you.

Common foot complaints caused by rheumatism

Rheumatism often affects the feet. In my practice, I regularly see the following issues:

Joint pain and stiffness

You may experience painful, stiff joints in your feet or toes. Especially in the morning or after resting, it can be difficult to get moving. I’ll examine how much stress your joints are under and how we can relieve it.

Changes in foot structure

Rheumatism can gradually alter the shape of your feet. Think of fallen arches, misaligned toes, or a shifted forefoot. These changes can lead to pressure points, walking difficulties, or less balance. I assess whether orthotics or shoe adjustments can help.

Wear and overuse

Due to altered posture or gait, you may develop overuse injuries in your feet, ankles, or knees. You may notice this as a dull pain during longer walks. Together we’ll look at ways to better distribute pressure.

Reduced mobility or abnormal walking pattern

If your feet are stiff or painful, you may start walking differently, which can cause other problems, like hip or back pain. I’ll analyze your gait and give you advice or exercises to move more freely.

What does a podiatrist do for rheumatism?

As a podiatrist, I look beyond just your complaints. I thoroughly examine your feet and identify the cause of your discomfort. I pay attention to the alignment of your feet, your gait, skin and nail health, and your shoes.

Sometimes I use pressure measurements or a gait analysis during the exam. This gives me a complete picture of how you move and where there’s too much strain. Based on this, I create a personalized treatment plan.

This may include:

• Orthotics to better support your feet
  
• Shoe advice or minor shoe modifications
  
• Exercises to improve mobility
  
• Treatment of calluses, corns, or nail problems 

I also assess whether collaboration with other healthcare professionals is needed, like a physical therapist, a medical pedicure or your rheumatologist. That way, we work together to treat your complaints as effectively as possible.

When should you see a podiatrist?

You don’t have to wait until you’re in a lot of pain. Especially with rheumatism, it’s important to monitor your feet and prevent complaints.

Feel free to contact me if you:

• find walking more difficult than before
  
• experience pain or stiffness in your feet
  
• notice changes in the shape of your feet or toes
  
• often suffer from calluses, pressure points, or corns
  
• struggle to find well-fitting shoes 

Even if you’re unsure whether treatment is needed, you’re welcome for an initial assessment. Together, we’ll see what your feet need.

Is podiatry for rheumatism covered by insurance?

If you have rheumatism, you’ll probably want to know whether the care I provide is covered. Podiatry is not always reimbursed under basic insurance, but many supplementary plans do cover it. The exact coverage depends on your insurer and the package you’ve chosen.

I recommend checking your policy in advance. Need help finding out? I’m happy to help — so you won’t be faced with surprises.

Living with rheumatism: keep moving with less pain

Rheumatism doesn’t go away, but you can learn to manage it better. My goal is to help you stay as comfortable and active as possible. By supporting your feet properly, reducing pressure, and easing pain, I help you stay mobile.

Together we’ll find practical solutions that fit your situation. Think of orthotics, better footwear, or tips for daily use. I’ll also advise you on how to care for your feet and what to watch out for.

Staying active is important, especially when you have rheumatism. With the right podiatric care, you can make daily movement a lot easier.

Frequently asked questions about podiatry for rheumatism

1. What foot problems can rheumatism cause?

Rheumatism can lead to joint pain, stiffness, deformities in the feet and toes, pressure points, and difficulties with walking. These issues may worsen over time without proper care.

2. How can a podiatrist help with rheumatism?

A podiatrist assesses your foot structure, gait, and pressure points. You may receive custom orthotics, shoe advice, exercises, and treatment for calluses or nail problems to reduce pain and improve mobility.

3. Do I need a referral to visit a podiatrist?

In most cases, no referral is needed. You can make an appointment directly if you experience foot pain, discomfort, or changes in foot structure due to rheumatism.

4. Is podiatry for rheumatism covered by insurance?

Podiatry is often covered through supplementary health insurance plans. Coverage may vary depending on your provider. We’re happy to help you check your options.

5. Can podiatry prevent long-term foot damage?

Yes. Regular visits to a podiatrist help detect issues early, prevent complications, and reduce long-term damage. Preventive care is key to staying active with rheumatism.