Foot Disorders in Rheumatology Practice; Clinical, Ultrasonographic And Electrophysiological Study

Abstract

Background: Foot disorders are highly prevalent and a significant source of disability in patients with rheumatic diseases, yet they are often under-evaluated in routine rheumatology practice. A comprehensive assessment combining clinical, imaging, and electrophysiological tools is essential for accurate diagnosis and management.

Aim: To detect different aspects of foot involvement in rheumatic disease and to detect the effect of foot involvement on disease activity and disability.

Patients and methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted on 50 patients (25 with RA and 25 with Gout), were recruited from the outpatient clinic of rheumatology and rehabilitation department of Minia university hospital between February 2023 and September 2023 for foot examination.

Results: Foot pain was reported by 52% of RA and 60% of Gout patients. RA patients showed more widespread joint involvement, higher disability scores (MHAQ: 1.12±0.66), and a greater prevalence of structural deformities (44%) and peripheral neuropathy (36%). Gout patients had predominant involvement of the 1st metatarsophalangeal (MTP) joint, with 48% showing erosions on MSUS, and lower overall disability (MHAQ: 0.57±0.73). 

Conclusion: Foot involvement is common in both RA and Gout, but with distinct patterns. RA is associated with more generalized involvement and higher disability, while Gout predominantly affects