Dimitra K. BONIA, Anastasia BENEKA
Rheumatology Quarterly - 2026;4(2):79-84
Foot and lower limb deformities are common manifestations of several rheumatic and musculoskeletal diseases (RMDs) and are frequently associated with impaired gait performance and functional limitations and pain. The aim of this Narrative Review was to provide a biomechanical and clinical overview of the impact of structural deformities of lower limb on kinematics in patients with RMDs. The Review focuses on conditions with significant musculoskeletal involvement, including rheumatoid arthritis, axial spondyloarthritis, psoriatic arthritis, osteoarthritis, and systemic sclerosis, and examines how these deformities influence joint kinematic and spatiotemporal parameters during gait. Understanding the relationship between gait kinematics and structural deformities of foot and lower limb in RMDs, may support more targeted clinical assessment and help inform rehabilitation strategies aimed at improving functional mobility, independence, and overall quality of life.
