Research project: OptiFoot: Optimisation of foot care for people living with arthritis.
In the UK 20 million people are reported to have some form of arthritis. Whilst mobility is a recommended component of healthy living for arthritis it assumes that feet are free from pain. Foot and ankle problems account for 8% of consultations in primary care however an evidence gap exists for robust research evidence about foot care provision in the UK for patients with rheumatoid arthritis and patients with osteoarthritis. Evidence suggests that podiatric foot care provision does not meet current recommended standards for these patients. Additionally, some of these patients are reporting that they are forcing themselves to walk through their foot pain in the requirement to exercise to manage their hip or knee arthritis or other problems such as heart disease. Many of these issues have not been given specific consideration by commissioners and service providers. Funder: National Institute for Health Research, College of Podiatry UK