What causes rheumatoid arthritis? [Genetic or Autoimmune Disease?]

Quick answer: What Causes Rheumatoid Arthritis Genetic Or Autoimmune Disease is a clinical condition that responds to evidence-based treatment when caught early. Symptoms include pain, swelling, and altered function. Diagnosis requires clinical exam, often imaging. Treatment ladder: conservative care first (4-6 weeks), then targeted interventions if needed. Call (810) 206-1402.

Medically reviewed by Dr. Tom Biernacki, DPM · Board-Certified Podiatric Surgeon · Last reviewed: April 2026 · Editorial Policy

MICHIGAN PODIATRIST INSIGHT

The most important clinical decision with What Causes Rheumatoid Arthritis Genetic Or Autoimmune Disease isn’t which treatment to start with — it’s identifying the correct subtype. That changes everything. Call (810) 206-1402.

Quick Answer

What causes rheumatoid arthritis? [Genetic or Autoimmune Dis relates to foot pain — typically caused by overuse, footwear, or biomechanics. Most patients improve in 6-12 weeks with conservative care. Same-week appointments in Howell + Bloomfield Township: (810) 206-1402.

Play video

Watch: Dr. Tom Biernacki explains the topic in detail · Subscribe to Michigan Foot Doctors on YouTube

✅ Medically reviewed by Dr. Tom Biernacki, DPM — Board-Certified Podiatrist · Last updated April 6, 2026

What causes rheumatoid arthritis? [Genetic or Autoimmune Disease?]

What causes rheumatoid arthritis? [Genetic or Autoimmune Disease?]

🦶We review: What causes rheumatoid arthritis? How to diagnose rheumatoid arthritis? Is rheumatoid arthritis genetic? Is rheumatoid arthritis an autoimmune disease? What is rheumatism arthritis? Full Video: https://youtu.be/CTtIMGqTwXQ🦶

Rheumatoid Arthritis Treatment Full Video: https://youtu.be/CTtIMGqTwXQ

Related Videos:
5 Best Arthritis Treatments 2023: https://youtu.be/5M7ngir46yQ
7 Worst foods for arthritis: https://youtu.be/gCjN1Rya6es
9 Best arthritis supplements: https://youtu.be/8CVHgrf-FLQ
Gout Arthritis Treatment: https://youtu.be/APtHQYtditY
Best gout arthritis home remedies: https://youtu.be/XheuXz4cKyw
Turmeric for arthritis pain relief: https://youtu.be/hIoGWnAv2YM
Rheumatoid arthritis treatment: https://youtu.be/CTtIMGqTwXQ
Arthritis in the foot: https://youtu.be/nfyY_8n5B8s
Sprained foot joints vs arthritis: https://youtu.be/7GcZkJuvdAI
Middle of the foot arthritis and Lisfranc pain: https://youtu.be/YVOGY0mwUcY
Burning feet and foot pain top 11 causes: https://youtu.be/kMlcvn88Xcc

👉 Shoes 👈
Best Shoes:

Podiatrist Recommended Shoes

Best Orthotics:

Podiatrist Recommended Orthotics

Best Products: https://www.michiganfootdoctors.com/recommended-foot-doctor-products///

📢Come See Us in Detroit, Michigan, Berkley Michigan; Bloomfield Township, Michigan, Lansing Michigan; and Grand Blanc Michigan📢

If you are in Michigan, consider seeing us at our clinic: https://www.michiganfootdoctors.com/.
https://g.page/r/CaxJ9b-O6o27EAE

Orthotics:
Best Overall Orthotic: https://geni.us/PowerStepOrthotics (Amazon)
Best Heavy Duty Orthotic: https://geni.us/HeavyDutyOrthotics (Amazon)
Best Women’s Orthotic: https://geni.us/BestWomensOrthotic (Amazon)
Best sub $25 Soft Orthotic: https://geni.us/BudgetSoftOrthotic (Amazon)
Best sub $25 Budget Orthotic: https://geni.us/BudgetOrthotic (Amazon)

Pain Relief:
Best Compression Sleeves: https://geni.us/PlantarFasciitisSock (Amazon)
Best Budget Compression Ankle Brace: https://geni.us/AnkleCompression (Amazon)
Best Muscle Massage Stick: https://geni.us/MuscleStick (Amazon)

Exercises & Stretches:
Best Ankle Stretch Incline Board: https://geni.us/z7bq (Amazon)
Best Budget Stretching Device: https://geni.us/BudgetFasciitisStretch (Amazon)

Compression socks & Compression stockings:
Note: Start Light & always check with your podiatrist if you have a medical condition.
Best 8-15 mmHg budget compression stockings: https://geni.us/NmvRw
Best 20-30 mmHg compression stocking: https://geni.us/bqasGh (Amazon)

Massage Device:
Our Favorite Calf Compression Device https://geni.us/sLJDN
Our Favorite Full Leg Compression Device https://geni.us/htyFl

Massage Gun:
Note: This is for sore, tight muscles, not to dissolve spurs.
Bob and Brad D6 Pro Massage Gun (My #:1 Choice) https://geni.us/ouFhWtI (10% OFF Code: BOBANDBRADD6)
Bob and Brad C2 Massage Gun (Great Travel): https://geni.us/BFKF (10% OFF Code: BOBBRADG10 or TIMPT104 or bobbradfall)
Bob and Brad 721 Foot Massager: https://geni.us/2RKyA7 (10% OFF Code: BobBrad2022)

Best Ankle Pain Braces:
Best Overall Ankle Stability Brace: https://geni.us/GreatBrace (Amazon)
Best Overall Compression Ankle Brace: https://geni.us/GreatCompressionBrace (Amazon)
Best Budget Ankle Stability Brace: https://geni.us/AnkleStability (Amazon)
Best Budget Compression Ankle Brace: https://geni.us/AnkleCompression (Amazon)

DISCLAIMER:
Dr. Tomasz Biernacki received his Doctor of Podiatric Medicine degree from Kent State College of Podiatric Medicine in 2013; he completed his Surgical Reconstructive Foot Surgery & Podiatric Medicine Residency in 2017; he completed 2x traveling Fellowships in Diabetic Surgery, Skin Grafting & Nerve Surgery. He is double board certified in Podiatric Medicine and Foot & Ankle Surgery. Dr. Biernacki is a licensed podiatrist & surgeon in Michigan. This video should not be used to self-diagnose and is not a substitute for a medical exam, cure, treatment, diagnosis, prescription, or recommendation. It does not create a doctor-patient relationship between Dr. Biernacki and you. It would be best to not change your health regimen or diet before consulting a physician and obtaining a medical exam & diagnosis. Always seek the advice of a physician or other qualified health provider with any questions regarding a medical condition.

Comprehensive Foot and Ankle Care in Michigan: Balance Foot & Ankle

At Balance Foot & Ankle, Michigan patients find a podiatric practice dedicated to delivering exceptional clinical care for the full range of foot and ankle conditions. Our fellowship-trained podiatrists combine advanced surgical skills with a thorough conservative care approach — ensuring that patients receive the right treatment for their specific condition at the right stage of their diagnosis. We believe in transparent communication: patients leave every visit with a clear understanding of their diagnosis, the rationale for their treatment plan, and realistic expectations for recovery.

Our Howell office at 4330 E Grand River and Bloomfield Township office at 43494 Woodward Ave #208 are equipped with in-office digital X-ray, ultrasound for diagnostic imaging and guided procedures, and the full range of conservative and interventional podiatric technologies including MLS laser therapy and EPAT shockwave therapy. We accept all major Michigan insurance plans and verify coverage before every appointment. New patients throughout Livingston, Oakland, and surrounding counties are welcome — call Balance Foot & Ankle at (810) 206-1402 to schedule your first appointment today.


Related Treatment Guides

For all foot and ankle concerns in Michigan, Balance Foot & Ankle offers expert evaluation and treatment at our Howell office at 4330 E Grand River and our Bloomfield Township office at 43494 Woodward Ave #208. Call (810) 206-1402 to schedule — same-week appointments are typically available for new patients.

Medical References & Sources

Play video

Insurance Accepted

BCBS · Medicare · Aetna · Cigna · United Healthcare · HAP · Priority Health · Humana · View All →

Ready to Get Back on Your Feet?

Same-week appointments available at both locations.

Book Your Appointment

(810) 206-1402

When to See a Podiatrist

Foot and ankle arthritis progresses silently — cartilage doesn’t regrow, but joint fusion, cheilectomy, and biologic injections can restore function at every stage. Balance Foot & Ankle offers the full arthritis spectrum: bracing, injections, and reconstructive surgery. Start with a consult so we can image the joint and give you a realistic 5-year outlook.

Call Balance Foot & Ankle: (810) 206-1402  ·  Book online  ·  Offices in Howell & Bloomfield Township

Pros & Cons of Conservative Care for foot care

Advantages

  • ✓ Conservative care first
  • ✓ Same-week appointments
  • ✓ Multiple insurance accepted

Considerations

  • ✗ Self-treatment can mask issues
  • ✗ See a podiatrist if pain >2 weeks

Dr. Tom’s Recommended Products for foot care

Affiliate disclosure: As an Amazon Associate, Balance Foot & Ankle earns from qualifying purchases. We only recommend products we use with patients.

Hoka Bondi 9 Dr. Tom’s Pick

Best for: Max cushion daily wear

Check Price on Amazon

PowerStep Pinnacle Dr. Tom’s Pick

Best for: General arch support

Check Price on Amazon

KT Tape Pro Synthetic Dr. Tom’s Pick

Best for: Multi-purpose taping

Check Price on Amazon

Footnanny Heel Cream Dr. Tom’s Pick

Best for: Daily moisturizer for cracked heels

Check Price on Amazon

Ready to Get Back on Your Feet?

Same-day appointments in Howell + Bloomfield Township. Most insurance accepted. Dr. Tom Biernacki, DPM & team.

Book Today — Same-Day Appointments Available

Call Now: (810) 206-1402

About Your Care Team at Balance Foot & Ankle

Dr. Tom Biernacki, DPM · Board-Certified Foot & Ankle Surgeon. Specializes in conservative-first care, minimally invasive bunion surgery, and complex reconstruction.

Dr. Carl Jay, DPM · Accepting new patients. Specializes in sports medicine, athletic injuries, and routine podiatric care.

Dr. Daria Gutkin, DPM, AACFAS · Accepting new patients. Specializes in surgical reconstruction and pediatric podiatry.

Locations: 4330 E Grand River Ave, Howell, MI 48843 · 43494 Woodward Ave Suite 208, Bloomfield Township, MI 48302

Hours: Mon–Fri 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM · (810) 206-1402

In-Office Treatment at Balance Foot & Ankle

If home treatment isn’t providing relief for your rheumatoid arthritis in the feet, our podiatry team at Balance Foot & Ankle can help with same-day evaluations and advanced in-office care.

Doctor Hoy’s Natural Pain Relief Gel

Natural topical pain relief I use in our clinic. Arnica + camphor formula — apply directly to the area 3–4x daily. ($20–25)

Shop Doctor Hoy’s →

Ready for Expert Care?

Same-day appointments in Howell & Bloomfield Township, MI.

4.9★ | 1,123 Reviews | 3,000+ Surgeries

Or call: (810) 206-1402

Recommended Products for Foot Arthritis
Products personally used and recommended by Dr. Tom Biernacki, DPM. All available on Amazon.
Anti-inflammatory topical for joint pain and stiffness without oral medication side effects.
Best for: Joint pain, morning stiffness
Shock-absorbing insoles that reduce impact stress on arthritic joints.
Best for: Reducing joint impact
Compression reduces swelling and supports circulation around arthritic joints.
Best for: Swelling reduction
These products work best with professional treatment. Book an appointment with Dr. Tom for a personalized treatment plan.
Complete Recovery Protocol
Dr. Tom's Arthritis Relief Kit
Daily management products for foot and ankle arthritis.
1

Doctor Hoy's Pain Relief Gel

Joint pain relief
~$18
2

PowerStep Pinnacle Insoles

Shock absorption
~$35
3

~$25
Kit Total: ~$78 $115+ for comparable products
All available on Amazon with free Prime shipping

Frequently Asked Questions

Can a podiatrist treat arthritis in the foot?
Yes. Podiatrists diagnose and treat all types of foot and ankle arthritis including osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and gout. Treatments include custom orthotics, joint injections, physical therapy, and surgical options when conservative care is insufficient.
How much does a podiatrist visit cost without insurance?
Self-pay podiatrist visits typically range from 100 to 250 dollars for an initial consultation. Contact Balance Foot & Ankle Specialists at (810) 206-1402 for current self-pay pricing and payment plan options.

Recommended Products from Dr. Tom

More questions patients ask

Why do women get rheumatoid arthritis more than men?

RA is 2–3 times more common in women, likely due to hormonal influences on immune regulation (particularly estrogen) and genetic factors. The disease often improves during pregnancy (when estrogen is high) and worsens postpartum. Balance Foot & Ankle at 4330 E Grand River, Howell and 43494 Woodward Ave #208, Bloomfield Township provides comprehensive foot care for RA patients of all demographics.

Can stress trigger rheumatoid arthritis?

Physical and emotional stress can trigger RA flares in people with established disease. Stress activates the HPA axis and inflammatory pathways. Stress management is a component of comprehensive RA care. Balance Foot & Ankle provides foot-specific RA management including orthotic and footwear solutions that reduce the physical stress on RA-affected feet.

What are the early signs of rheumatoid arthritis in the feet?

Early RA foot signs include: morning stiffness in the MTP joints (ball of foot), symmetric swelling of multiple foot joints, pain at the ball of the foot when walking, and a sense of 'walking on marbles.' Contact Balance Foot & Ankle at (810) 206-1402 promptly if you notice these signs — early intervention with rheumatology dramatically changes RA outcomes.

Still have a question about coverage or cost? Book online and we will check your benefits before your visit: Book in Howell · Book in Bloomfield Township. Prefer to talk it through first? Call (810) 206-1402.

Balance Foot & Ankle surgeons are affiliated with Trinity Health Michigan, Corewell Health, and Henry Ford Health — three of Michigan’s largest health systems.