Lupus is an autoimmune disease in which the body’s immune system attacks healthy tissue. This can result in inflammation and damage to joints, the skin, kidneys, blood, heart and lungs.

Lupus can also affect the feet which means it is very important for Lupus sufferers to monitor there feet regularly as well as seeking treatment from a Podiatrist if any problems arise.

The inflammation associated with lupus can affect the joints and tendons in the feet and ankles causing changes to the foot shape including fallen arches and deformitys of the toes. Therefore Lupus suffers may need foot orthoses (insoles) at some point to improve the function of there feet and reduce pain when walking.

Lupus can also affect the blood supply and nerves in the feet. Symptoms such as cramping in the calf or thigh can be a sign that the arterys are hardening and the blood supply has decreased to the feet which may affect healing. Inflammation can also damage the nerves which means there will be a reduced sensation in the feet. Both these factors combined can lead to ulcers on the feet which are slow to heal.

Therefore it is important to see a Podiatrist who can check the circulation and sensation in the feet with simple tests. Podiatrists can provide general foot care and assess the feet whilst providing advise to the patient regarding self care and warning signs to look out for.