What Is Rheumatoid Arthritis?
Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic autoimmune condition that causes the body’s immune system to mistakenly attack healthy joints, leading to inflammation, pain, and joint damage. Unlike osteoarthritis, which is caused by wear and tear, RA is systemic and can affect multiple joints—including those in the feet and ankles.
At Tooronga Podiatry, we regularly support patients from Tooronga, Malvern, Glen Iris, Armadale, and surrounding suburbs who are managing the effects of rheumatoid arthritis on their feet. Our goal is to help reduce pain, preserve mobility, and improve your overall quality of life through tailored podiatric care.
How Does Rheumatoid Arthritis Affect the Feet?
RA commonly affects the small joints of the feet and toes. Over time, chronic inflammation can lead to:
Joint swelling and tenderness
Deformities such as bunions, claw toes, or collapsed arches
Joint instability or misalignment
Difficulty walking or wearing shoes
Increased risk of foot ulcers or pressure sores
Because RA is progressive, early intervention is key to slowing joint damage and maintaining foot function.
Symptoms of Rheumatoid Arthritis in the Feet
Symptoms can vary from person to person, but common signs include:
Persistent pain or aching in the feet
Swelling around the joints
Morning stiffness that lasts more than 30 minutes
Warmth or redness over affected joints
Changes in foot shape or alignment
Difficulty with balance or walking
If you have RA and notice changes in your feet, it’s important to seek podiatric care early to prevent long-term complications.
What Treatment Options Are There?
At Tooronga Podiatry, we offer a range of non-surgical treatments to help manage rheumatoid arthritis in the feet and support your overall mobility.
Custom Orthotics
We design custom orthotic insoles to support your arches, reduce joint stress, and improve foot alignment.
Footwear Advice
We help you choose shoes that accommodate joint deformities, reduce pressure points, and provide stability.
Padding & Offloading Devices
We use specialised padding or offloading techniques to relieve pressure on painful joints and prevent skin breakdown.
Joint Mobilisation & Manual Therapy
Gentle techniques to maintain joint flexibility and reduce stiffness.
Exercise & Strengthening Programs
We provide exercises to improve foot strength, balance, and joint support.
Wound Prevention & Care
If you’re at risk of ulcers or pressure sores, we offer preventive care and wound management strategies.
Referral for Specialist Support
We work closely with rheumatologists, physiotherapists, and orthopaedic specialists to ensure coordinated care.
Why Tooronga Podiatry?
Managing rheumatoid arthritis in the feet requires a collaborative and compassionate approach. Here’s why patients across East Melbourne choose Tooronga Podiatry:
Experienced Team
Our podiatrists have extensive experience treating inflammatory joint conditions and understand the unique challenges of RA.
Individualised Care Plans
We tailor every treatment plan to your symptoms, lifestyle, and long-term health goals.
Convenient Locations
With clinics in Tooronga and East Melbourne, we’re easily accessible for patients in Malvern, Glen Iris, Armadale, and nearby areas.
Supportive, Honest Advice
We’re committed to providing clear, professional guidance. If your condition requires additional care, we’ll refer you to the right specialist.
Home Visits & Aged Care Services
We offer home visit podiatry and residential aged care services for patients who need treatment in the comfort of their own home.
Book an Appointment Today
If you’re living with rheumatoid arthritis and experiencing foot pain, stiffness, or joint changes, don’t wait. Early podiatric care can help you stay mobile and reduce long-term joint damage.
📍 Visit Tooronga Podiatry—your trusted local podiatrist for rheumatoid arthritis foot care in Tooronga, Malvern, Glen Iris, and East Melbourne.
📞 Call us or book online to schedule your consultation today.