Health Central reports that rheumatoid arthritis (RA) can affect almost any joint in the body but often starts in the foot and ankle, per the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons. Chrysta Irolla, director of prosthetics and orthotics at HSS and other experts weigh in on how the use of orthotics can help ease foot and ankle pain. 

According to Irolla, “Orthotics is somewhat of an umbrella term.” Orthotics can vary broadly and range from a foot pad or heel insert for your shoes, purchased at a local pharmacy, to a custom molded shoe insert or ankle brace.

Irolla says that orthotics can “absolutely help” those with RA. “Usually in RA, when it comes to the foot and ankle, orthotics refer to supports that may address pain and mobility issues,” she explained . They can be off the shelf or they can also be a custom made device, Irolla said. Beyond differentiating between over the counter or custom-made, Irolla noted that orthotics for RA can also be divided into three other categories: pain relief, deformity support, and quality of life/function.

Read the full article at healthcentral.com.