Impact of Psoriatic Arthritis on Foot Health: An Overview
Ain't no fun when them doggone feet act up! Psoriatic arthritis can sure put a damper on your step, but fear not. Here's the lowdown on this pesky condition, courtesy of rheumatologist Rochelle Rosian, MD.
Psoriatic arthritis (PsA) is like some wonky immune system, causing joint pain and swelling. Guess who's usually affected? You got it—people dealing with psoriasis, that scaly, red skin condition. Since PsA and psoriasis both occur when your immune system goes rogue, it's quite the double whammy.
In the feet department, PsA can cause or contribute to all sorts of problems, including:
- Dactylitis: Yep, that's sausage digits for ya. Inflammation throughout an entire toe can make it swollen and puffy, like a tiny hot dog.
- Heel pain: Eva, don't worry 'bout your Achilles tendon. Inflammation in this bad boy can cause heel pain––quite a significant one!
- Bottom-of-the-foot pain: Plantar fasciitis is our new best enemy here. When this ligament gets inflamed, it can cause pain from your heel all along the sole of your foot.
- Spur formation: Arthritis can mess with the ligaments and tendons that attach to your bones. This can lead to spur formation, or in some cases, wearing away of the bone––ouch!
- Nail changes: So long, fancy nails! PsA can bring on pits, dents, and thickening of the toenails. Yuck!
- Other symptoms: Joint pain in those MTP joints (metatarsophalangeal joints), swelling in the balls of your feet, hammer toes, and an enlargement of the MTP joint in your big toe are all possibilities.
Fortunately, there are ways to help alleviate that pain and keep you moving forward.
Tips for treating Psoriatic Arthritis foot pain:
- Go hot and cold: Some people find warmth helps ease joint pain and swelling, while others favor ice for cooling inflammation. Try both to see what works best for you!
- Exercise: Exercise might be the last thing you want to do, but regular, gentle motion can help reduce stiffness and improve foot function. Opt for low-impact activities, like walking or swimming. Don't forget to ask for a referral to a physical therapist or foot doctor!
- Foot spa: High heels are no friend of your feet. Instead, choose comfy shoes that provide support and cushioning. Consider custom orthotics, which can serve as shock absorbents for your doggone feet!
- Maintain a healthy weight: Your feet work hard, carrying the weight of your entire body each time you stand or walk. Keep the load light by maintaining a healthy weight.
- Follow your treatment plan: Chat with your doc about your foot pain and how it's impacting your life. Work together to find the right meds to manage pain, swelling, and prevent joint damage in your feet!
Ok, kid, LET'S WALK! Foot pain doesn't have to stand in your way. With the right strategies, you'll be strutting your stuff in no time!
- Psoriatic arthritis can cause various health issues, such as dactylitis, heel pain, plantar fasciitis, spur formation, nail changes, and other symptoms like joint pain, swelling, and enlargement of the MTP joints in the feet.
- These skin conditions are often accompanied by neurological disorders, making it a double whammy for those affected.
- Health and wellness, including fitness and exercise, can play a significant role in managing chronic diseases like psoriatic arthritis, offering relief from joint pain and swelling.
- Aging can exacerbate the symptoms of psoriatic arthritis, as the deterioration of bones and joints becomes more pronounced over time.
- Skin care and therapies and treatments, such as custom orthotics, may help alleviate foot pain caused by psoriatic arthritis.
- Maintaining a healthy weight, wearing comfortable shoes, and following a doctor-prescribed treatment plan can further reduce foot pain and prevent joint damage associated with psoriatic arthritis.
