Balance and arthritis

[Celebrant]

I had no idea my balance would stay so affected. I don't feel dizzy--though at times weak. The balance seems to come from my feet. Any hints, wisdom or suggestions?

[helixhelix]

Have you seem a podiatrist recently? As if your feet change, your gait and balance can also change. I can’t walk in bare feet anymore as I feel totally unstable since my feet tip me over. With shoes on I’m fine. So perhaps ask to see a foot specialist who can do a gait analysis.

The other thing is just to see whether your balance is reducing, it does with age unless you work at it. I don’t know how old you are, but how long can you stand with your feet together and eyes closed and stay still? If not long at all then it would be an idea to do simple balance exercises - stand on one leg while you brush your teeth.walk heel to toe for a few minutes a day. That sort of thing. It works.

[Mmrr]

Only a little over 3 years ago I was known as the mountain goat, due to my sure footedness whilst hillwalking and being able to ascend steep slopes quickly and sure footedly. I now have minor balance problems.

My feet, right foot in particular, is affected by RD. I've been seen by several different podiatrists and physios, privately and through the NHS, who have all said balance issues can be a feature of RD.

I was advised on footwear and some strengthening exercises, but cannot do these as I flare everytime I use the muscles.

It might be worthwhile asking for a referral through your rheumatology department.

[Hidden in reply to Mmrr]

Snap. Im just the same could walk

forever no one could keep up with me. now I’m like a snail hardly any flexibility can’t stand on top toes have done the physio but I get a flare up (regularly with my feet) and back to square one. But..... I have just bought a shiatsu foot massager I can’t believe the difference I use for 15 mins in the morning and evening or after being on my feet for sometime I can stand on my toes for the first time this morning 😁😁😁😁😁 only had the machine for 5 days so early days but I’m very happy this morning less stiffness and pain . LONG MAY IT LAST 😁

[futurefox2 in reply to Hidden]

Sounds a good idea. Also have balance problems but partly due to ankle fusion and arthritis of the feet. What model did you buy?

[oldtimer]

It is likely to be a problem that you can improve. The weakness of the muscles and the different way in which you use your joints when they have been hurting affects the feedback from the lower legs. It's worth seeing a physio who can help with targeted exercises, and probably also a podiatrist who can help with your gait.

[Hidden]

Agree with all of the above. Changes in your feet and loss of strength can cause balance issues - especially first thing when you get out of bed, or you’ve been sitting for a bit. Podiatrist, strength training and balance exercises should help, cheers Deb

[medway-lady]

Get a blood test for B12 as one symptom is walking weird no idea why but GP made me walk across the room.

[rosie1928]

I'm glad you raised this subject. I think it is tiredness and weakness that brings on loss of balance. I use a cane now and it gives me a lot of confidence as I do get my dizzy moments. I don't think it is all about ageing. I was 42 when I first got RA and my balance was affected. I had to be careful when I turned around on my heel. The joints in feet get inflamed and the soft tissue and we move differently. I wish I had used a cane much earlier. I can't walk on uneven surfaces anymore but the cane steadies me.

With RA we go through so many changes and on top of that we face ageing. I get perplexed at times about RA and it's always a good idea to tell your Dr or rheumy as much as you can.

[MrsHB]

Hi, I have RA but I also have arachnoiditas and Fybromyalga. I have fallen down the stars a few times recently and put it down to nerve problems and no feeling in my left leg. But reading your post I'm starting to think it might be my RA, does anyone else suffer with arachnoiditas and had the same problems? I am on a lot of medication too though so it may be all three. Would love to know what you think 🤔

[Sjhoney]

Hi, you should make an appointment with a podiatrist. I wear an orthotic in my shoes and it really helps. It does limit the shoes I can wear, especially sandals (goodbye Birkenstock’s 😩), but there are some good brands out there with removable insoles. Good luck!

[turtlemom2]

Me too! I thought it was just me. I have to concentrate more but I still walk like I'm drunk at times.

[Chicafromchitown in reply to turtlemom2]

Have you thought about seeing a neurologist, since walking like you’re drunk it’s one of symptoms of having Parkinsons. Good luck

[turtlemom2 in reply to Chicafromchitown]

I don't do it all the time but it does seem like that at times. It's more like I loose my balance and have to grab a wall at times. I have seen a neuroligists and she thinks I am fine.

[Chicafromchitown in reply to turtlemom2]

Good to hear that!! Take care

[Bradclew]

Hi I'm having the same problem can't understand why. Y balance is affected and you're right mine seems to come from my feet too