RT Journal Article SR Electronic T1 Rheumatoid flat foot and deformity of the first ray. JF The Journal of Rheumatology JO J Rheumatol FD The Journal of Rheumatology SP 903 OP 905 VO 29 IS 5 A1 Maurice Bouysset A1 Jacques Tebib A1 Eric Noel A1 Thierry Tavernier A1 Pierre Miossec A1 Jean-Claude Vianey A1 Jean-Pierre Duivon A1 Michel Bonnin A1 Chantal Nemoz A1 Jocelyne Jalby YR 2002 UL http://www.jrheum.org/content/29/5/903.abstract AB OBJECTIVE: To study the relationship between flat foot and forefoot deformities in rheumatoid arthritis (RA) in order to improve understanding of the progression of deformity and thus provide more appropriate treatment. METHODS: Anteroposterior and lateral weight-bearing radiographs were obtained of 308 feet of patients with RA and 202 feet of patients with neck pain (control feet). RESULTS: In women with RA, we observed with disease duration an increased frequency of flat foot that was correlated with first ray deformity (chiefly metatarsus primus adductus) and severe stages of disability. Flat foot increased very markedly after 3-4 years of disease duration. In control women, flat feet were more frequent after the age of 50 years. CONCLUSION: In RA the inflammatory and mechanical factors leading to foot deformity must receive early medical treatment to avoid progressive hindfoot deformities that lead to disability.