Arthritis can affect the feet. It is a disease of the joints that may go beyond the joints to affect other parts of the body. When this happens, it is known as a systemic disease. Systemic forms of arthritis that can affect the feet include rheumatoid arthritis, systemic lupus erythematosus, and psoriatic arthritis. Osteoarthritis is not a form of systemic disease because it only affects the joints. Systemic conditions from these types of arthritis can cause a variety of symptoms like fatigue, fever, weakness, and skin complications. It is generally thought that arthritis can develop into a systemic disease from a combination of genetic and environmental factors. Those with varying degrees of foot pain may suffer from systemic disease and early diagnosis can help avoid complications. If you suffer from arthritis that is causing foot discomfort, whether having a systemic disease or not, it is suggested that you consult with a chiropodist who can help you in getting relief and treatment.

Systemic diseases are medical problems that affect the entire body. Many systemic diseases can bring about foot and ankle problems. If you have a systemic disease that affects your lower limbs, please consult with Chiropodist Stephanie Poupore from North Bay Foot & Ankle. Our clinician can help you maintain the health of your lower limbs and your mobility. 

Which systemic diseases can affect the feet?

• Peripheral artery disease - Causes inadequate blood flow to the lower limbs

• Peripheral neuropathy - Nerve damage in the nerves that supply the feet and ankles

• Diabetes - Can cause nerve damage, poor circulation, and a weakened immune system that can lead to the formation of poorly healing wounds on the feet

• Arthritis - A disease of the joints that damages joint lining, it often affects the small joints of the feet and the ankle joints

• Gout - A build up of uric acid in the bloodstream that forms crystals that can lodge in the joints

How can a chiropodist help? 

Chiropodists help people who have systemic disease manage and maintain their foot health in a variety of ways. They can diagnose a multitude of foot and ankle problems, screen for certain systemic conditions, teach patients about proper foot care, and provide information about preventive strategies that patients could employ to avoid complications from their systemic diseases. Chiropodists can also treat foot and ankle problems through medications, foot and ankle exercises, orthotics, and lifestyle recommendations, among many other potential treatments

If you are living with a systemic illness that impacts your foot health, please feel free to contact our office located in . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.