Arthritis stands for several diseases of the joints, making them stiff, and inflamed, and painful. It is the biggest cause of disability in the United Kingdom, and affects about 1 in 20 under 40 year olds and about 1 in 3 over 60 year olds. There are many types of arthritis; common types include rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, and gout.
Arthritis is caused by:
• Age related changes
• Joint instability
• Metabolic (gout), autoimmune (rheumatoid) and age related (osteo)
• Genetic predisposition
• Changes due to age
• Keep your weight under control and eat a normal, balanced diet. There is no real evidence to suggest that a specialist diet will help your arthritis.
• If you suffer from a foot deformity, it would be a good idea to visit a chiropodist/podiatrist for advice and treatment.
• Visit your GP for an assessment if your joints are regularly painful and tender.
• See a Chiropodist/Podiatrist for further assessment if you have had diagnosis of arthritis and have painful feet.
• Choose flat, supportive, and roomy footwear. If your joints are at all deformed, you can reduce pressure using a soft upper. Choose shoes that provide support.
• Support for joints that are weakened is helpful and can be provided by a heel back that is firm. Lace-up styles and low heels are a good idea, and will give the best support. If you have arthritis in your hands, you will find touch-fastening styles easiest.
• Insoles can help reduce underfoot pain and will help look after joints that are swollen
• .CarverCare and Mobility are the leading suppliers of mobility equipment and aids for daily living in a wide area around Milton Keynes, Buckinghamshire, and Luton Bedfordshire. Please get in touch and we will be happy to help and advise.