What is arthritis?

‘Arthro’ means joint and ‘itis’ means inflammation. Arthritis is a group of diseases affecting the joints, causing them to be stiff, inflamed and often painful.

It is the greatest cause of disability in the UK, affecting approximately 1 in 20 under 40 year olds and 1 in 3 over 60 year olds.

There are many kinds of arthritis; common types include osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis and gout.

Causes of Arthritis

• Joint instability
• Age related changes
• Metabolic (gout), autoimmune (rheumatoid) and age related (osteo)
• Genetic predisposition
• Stress
• Age related changes

Helpful Advice

• Try to keep your weight controlled and eat a normal balanced diet. There is no real evidence to suggest specialist diets will affect or improve arthritis.
• If you have a foot deformity, visit a chiropodist / podiatrist for treatment and advice.
• See your GP for an assessment if your joints get painful or tender regularly.
• If you have had an arthritis diagnosis and your feet are painful see a Chiropodist / Podiatrist for further assessment.

Footwear Recommendations

• Choose flat roomy shoes that are supportive. If joints are deformed reduce pressure with a soft upper. Ensure the shoes give adequate support.
• Extra support for weakened joints is important and can be provided by a firm heel back. Low heels and lace up styles are preferable, again for the best support. Many people are also affected with arthritis in their hands – in this case you will find touch-fastening styles are easier to adjust.
• Underfoot cushioning such as insoles can help reduce pain underfoot and protect exposed swollen joints.

For Further Information on Arthritis
www.arthritiscare.org.uk

Call in and see us at Wealden Mobility where we have a wide range of suitable shoes, slippers and related products available for you to try before you buy