Investigation of Knowledge about Foot Health in Patients with Rheumatoid Arthritis

INTRODUCTION: Foot involvement is frequently observed in patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA). However, the knowledge about foot health in patients with RA is limited and awareness of physicians is not sufficient. The purpose of this study was to investigate knowledge about foot health and related factors in RA patients.
METHODS: This study included 115 patients diagnosed with RA. Demographics of patients were recorded. Overall Foot Health Questionnaire (OFHQ), Foot Function Index (FFI) and Health Assessment Questionnaire (HAQ) were used to evaluate knowledge level about foot health, foot function and general health status, respectively.
RESULTS: The study was completed with 111 patients with RA. It was found that the foot health knowledge level of RA patients was 9.03 ± 3.9, out of 18. Significant difference was found in gender, occupation, smoking and education level according to OFHQ and significant correlation was found between OFHQ and disability subscale of FFI (p<0.05). There was no significant correlation between OFHQ and pain and activity restriction subscales of FFI and HAQ (p>0.05).
DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION: It was found moderate level of knowledge of foot health in RA patients. Therefore, it is important to provide more information about foot health protection and to include patients’ education as a part of treatment.