Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic inflammatory disorder affecting many joints, including those in the hands and feet. The symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis can vary, but common signs include tender, warm, swollen joints, joint stiffness often worse in the mornings and after periods of inactivity, fatigue, fever, and loss of appetite. This inflammatory form of arthritis causes not only joint pain and swelling but can also lead to joint damage.
Not everyone experiences the same symptoms with RA or related conditions like psoriatic arthritis. In cases of psoriatic arthritis affecting the ankle, symptoms to watch for include Achilles tendonitis, ankle pain, and stiffness, as noted by Dr. Pando.
Recent research, published in The Lancet, highlights the effectiveness of methotrexate, a low-cost treatment option for inflammatory joint conditions such as rheumatoid and psoriatic arthritis.
Moreover, the concept of disease suppression versus prevention is critical in understanding RA. Without treatment during the at-risk phase of arthralgia, rheumatoid arthritis can develop following its natural course.
Another important aspect is the differentiation of RA from other forms of arthritis, such as tuberculous arthritis, which requires prompt treatment with antituberculosis medication to prevent long-term joint damage.
For more comprehensive information on rheumatoid arthritis, including symptoms, causes, and treatment options, visit the Mayo Clinic’s detailed guide. Learn more about the causes, symptoms, and treatments of RA in this comprehensive article or explore Arthritis Foundation’s resource for a deeper understanding. Information about psoriatic arthritis in the ankle can be found in Health Central’s article. The latest research on methotrexate is available in Science Daily’s report, and insights into RA prevention in arthralgia are discussed in Nature’s publication. For information on tuberculous arthritis, visit Healthline.
