Surgical treatment of the ankle and foot in patients with rheumatoid arthritis
Bohay, D.R.; Brage, M.E.; Younger, A.S.E.
Instructional Course Lectures 58: 595-616
2009
ISSN/ISBN: 0065-6895 PMID: 19385570 Document Number: 633404
Rheumatoid arthritis can be as devastating for the joints of the foot and ankle as for other joints of the lower and upper extremities. Early conservative treatment often is provided by a primary care provider or rheumatologist. Drug and injection therapies are used with footwear modifications, activity restrictions, and orthoses. Surgery often is the last treatment modality available to the patient; it has the potential to relieve pain and improve function.