The rheumatoid foot and falls

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People with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) have an increased risk of falling. Foot deformity is common in RA and may be linked to falls. The research will assess the relationship between foot deformity and falls in people with RA. Falls can result in death, injury, loss of confidence and independence and increased risk of falling. The identification of modifiable falls risk factors, in the rheumatoid foot, may lead to the development of an intervention that prevents falls in people with RA and improves quality of life. Hypotheses to be tested: 1. There will be a significant difference in structural and functional foot and ankle characteristics in RA patients with a history of falls, compared to RA patients who have not fallen. 2. There will be an association found between foot and ankle characteristics and falls in patients with RA. 3. Specific foot and ankle characteristics, in the rheumatoid foot, will be identified as predictors of falls in patients with RA.