Rheumatoid Arthritis at Foot and Ankle Clinic DRHC Dubai

Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) is a systemic autoimmune disease. It is a chronic and most common form of inflammatory disease that affects the whole body (joints, tendons, heart, lungs, vessels).

It affects approximately 1% of the population. In some cases, there is a genetic predisposition. It is seen as female more than male(3:1).

Rheumatoid arthritis hits the knees (causing osteoarthritis), cervical spine, elbows, ankle and shoulder, and especially hands and feet joints. 90 % of cases rheumatoid arthritis hits the ankle and feet.

Symptoms

• Insidious onset of morning stiffness (about 1 hour)
• Joint pain and swelling (usually bilateral and symmetrical, small joints of feet and hands sparing the distal interphalangeal joints)
• Subcutaneous nodules
• Wrist ulnar deviation
• Metacarpophalangeal subluxation
• Swan neck and boutonniere deformity in the hands
• Claw toes and hallux valgus in the feet.

X-ray will show osteopenia, periarticular erosions, subluxation or dislocation, and osteoarthritis at progressive stages of the disease.

Lab studies will show elevated c-reactive protein and sedimentation rate and positive rheumatoid factor in active phase of the disease and elevated anti-cyclic citrullinated peptide which is the most sensitive and specific test for rheumatoid arthritis.

Treatment

The mainstay of treatment is a medication that reduces the inflammatory response (cortisone, methotrexate, antimalarials, NSAIDS, cytotoxic drugs, and Disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drugs DMARDs) those medications improve the prognosis of rheumatoid arthritis.

Surgery is kept for deformity correction

• Repairing hallux valgus deformity by scarf osteotomy of the first metatarsus
• Repairing claws toes, Toe hyperextension deformity in the metatarsophalangeal joints which can be treated by arthrodesis of the 1st metatarsophalangeal joint and lesser metatarsophalangeal joint resections.
• Midfoot arthritis can be treated by joint fusion.
• Also, there is a new technique of synovectomy of the affected joint either by arthroscope or by injection of medication that can prevent joint destruction and further deformity.

At DRHC Dubai, we are committed to providing personalized and effective care for rheumatoid arthritis, empowering patients to manage their condition and live life to the fullest. Experience compassionate and expert treatment at DRHC Dubai, where your well-being is our priority. To book your appointment, call +97142798200.