Psoriatic Arthritis of the Feet

 

Psoriatic Arthritis can be painful when it strikes any of the joints in your body. Let’s take a look at what happens when your feet are affected by this disease.

Signs of Psoriatic Arthritis of the Foot

·         Red, swollen, sausage-shaped toes

·         Pitted or ridged nails

·         Nails peeling away from your nail bed

·         Soreness in your sole or heel

·         Disfiguring bone damage

If you experience any of these symptoms, it is best to seek a medical opinion. If left untreated, psoriatic arthritis can cause permanent damage to your feet. It is important to minimize inflammation as soon as possible. You can help to do that by wearing shoes that fit and keeping your feet in good shape.

If you suffer from psoriatic arthritis, choosing the right shoe can help to avoid pain. Try a shoe that follows these tips:

·         Shoes that support your heels, arches and balls of the feet

·         Closed-toed shoes for when your toes are swollen and sore

·         Shoes with shock-absorbing soles and a roomy toe

Keeping your feet healthy with exercise is one of the best ways to reduce symptoms of psoriatic arthritis. Doing regular stretches can help keep feet healthy and reduce pain. Ask your doctor what stretches are appropriate for you to keep your toes and tendons limber.

 

Image by essers. Monkey Feet. (2008). Flickr.