Podiatry, or chiropody, specializes in care of the foot and can make a big difference to mobility and walking ability in people with arthritis.

The feet and ankles provide us with the ability to do some of the most essential tasks in life, like walking and standing, but are also two of the most arthritis-affected areas.

If you visit a podiatrist - an appointment can be made through your GP or independently in some cases - they will closely examine the way you walk (gait analysis), to assess the range of motion, pressure on the foot, forces on the joints and the way you protect your painful foot. An x-ray and ultrasound scans may also be carried out to get a better idea of your condition. You may then be prescribed with orthotic insoles and shoes, which are designed with good support and ease of movement in mind.