You Don't Have to Suffer with Podiatric Psoriasis
Many patients may remember a television commercial from years ago about the "heartbreak of psoriasis," but do you know what psoriasis is? Psoriasis is a chronic autoimmune condition that affects as many as 7.5 million Americans. The most common type of psoriasis causes plaques - red, raised patches on the skin that are covered by a silvery layer of dead skin. These plaques typically occur on the elbows and knees, but they can also be found on the feet, where they are particularly itchy and uncomfortable.
There are two forms of psoriasis that can be seen on the soles of the feet and the palms of the hands. The milder form causes the formation of dry, itchy, scaly patches. A rare, more severe form of podiatric psoriasis called palmoplantar pustulosis causes the formation of pus-filled blisters.
More women than men have psoriasis and the disease is more commonly seen in adults than in children. About 10 percent of people are born with genes that make them vulnerable to psoriasis, but only about 2 percent of people actually manifest the disease.
If you suspect that you're noticing symptoms of plaque psoriasis on your feet, a visit to your podiatrist is in order. After examination and confirmation of your suspicions, your foot doctor will almost certainly recommend medical treatment. Some common options include:
over the counter and prescription topical steroids
prescription oral medication
topical vitamin A and D ointments, which have been shown to slow down skin cell growth
ultraviolet light treatment therapy
To contribute to your psoriasis management plan, you should plan on taking some simple steps:
Practice good hygiene. Keep your feet clean and dry.
Wear comfortable shoes and socks made of materials that allow feet to breathe.
Take good care of your feet. Avoid risky activities that could hurt them. Psoriasis outbreaks often occur following injury.
To limit the frequency and duration of psoriasis outbreaks, soak your hands or feet in warm water and pat them dry. Slather them with moisturizer, and then put on a pair of cotton socks for a few hours or overnight. Do this twice each day for maximum effectiveness.
Podiatric psoriasis is uncomfortable and can make everyday activities difficult. Get help.
Contact James C. Ricketti, DPM and let us address all your foot and ankle needs. Our board-certified podiatrist will tailor treatments based on your individual needs and with our state-of-the-art diagnostic and treatment options, we’ll help you get back on your feet in no time! Call our office today at 609-587-1674 to make an appointment at our conveniently located Hamilton, NJ office.