Arthritis can affect multiple joints as the body produces chemicals that cause inflammation. Approximately 90 percent of individuals with rheumatoid or autoimmune arthritis develop symptoms of the foot, according to the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons, or AAOS. Symptoms generally appear in the forefeet, toes, heel, back of the foot and ankles. Physiotherapy exercises can help to reduce damage and decrease symptoms in the joints. A physiotherapist or physician should be consulted before beginning foot exercises for arthritis.
Arch-strengthening Exercise
Arch-strengthening exercises are recommended by the Vancouver Coastal Health, or VCH, to stretch and strengthen the metatarsal or arched area under the foot. Place a cloth the size of a large handkerchief on the floor and use the toes to slide the cloth toward the body while keeping the heel flat and in place on the floor. After the cloth is gathered below the foot, use the toes to move the cloth back out in the opposite direction. Repeat five to 10 times.
Manual Foot Stretch
This stretching exercise manually stretches the phalanges, or toes, and metatarsal joints at the arch of the foots. While sitting reach down, use the fingers to bend the toes as far back as possible. Hold this position for five to 10 seconds and repeat. Rubbing the arch of the foot with lotion at the same time can also help to improve stretching in the area.
Ankle Rotations
The VCH recommends ankle rotations to stretch and strengthen this joint and also increase blood flow to the joints in the foot. While sitting in a chair, raise the foot and rotate the foot clockwise five to 15 times and counter-clockwise five to 15 times.
Arch Stretch
To do the arch stretch, sit up straight in a chair and place a tennis ball under the arch of the foot. Roll it forward and backward while placing pressure on the ball. Ensure the foot rolls forward so that the toes are on the ball, then roll back to the heels.
Toe Stretch
This exercise is simply standing on the tip of the toes. Stand by a wall or chair for support and slowly rise on the tips of the toes. Hold this position for a few seconds if comfortable, relax and repeat 10 to 20 times.
