The great toe as a clinical problem in rheumatoid arthritis

Area of Science:

• Rheumatology
• Podiatry
• Orthopedics

Background:

• Rheumatoid arthritis frequently impacts joints, including those in the feet.
• Foot deformities are a common complication of rheumatoid arthritis, affecting patient mobility and quality of life.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the prevalence and types of foot deformities in rheumatoid arthritis patients.
• To describe two previously unnamed foot deformities, Hallux tortus and chisel toe, and their impact on footwear.

Main Methods:

• Examination of 200 consecutive in-patients with rheumatoid arthritis.
• Detailed recording of foot and great toe pain and deformities.

Main Results:

• Abnormalities were observed in 196 out of 200 feet.
• Common deformities included those affecting the great toe.
• Two new entities, Hallux tortus and chisel toe, were identified and described.

Conclusions:

• Foot deformities are highly prevalent in rheumatoid arthritis patients.
• Appropriate footwear is crucial for managing symptoms arising from these deformities.
• The newly described Hallux tortus and chisel toe present unique challenges for shoe fitting.