Psoriatic arthritis, or PsA, is a type of inflammatory arthritis that affects some people who have psoriasis. It can cause significant pain and swelling in the feet. When PsA targets the feet, it commonly affects the small joints in the toes. This leads to a condition called dactylitis, or sausage toe, where the entire toe swells up. It can also cause enthesitis, which is inflammation where tendons and ligaments attach to bones, often at the heel or arch. This inflammation can make walking difficult and lead to structural changes in the foot over time. A podiatrist can provide valuable support for treating psoriatic arthritis in the feet by prescribing custom orthotics, and anti-inflammatory therapies, as well as offering guidance on proper footwear to relieve pressure on affected areas. If untreated, PsA in the feet can progress to deformities, making early intervention important. If you have psoriatic arthritis that affects your feet, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam and relief options.
When dealing with systemic disease of the feet, it is extremely important to check the affected areas routinely so that any additional problems are caught quickly. If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles contact Stephanie Oexeman, DPM from Oexeman Foot and Ankle, PLLC. our doctor will assist you with all of your podiatric needs.
Systemic Diseases of the Feet
Systemic diseases affect the whole body, and symptoms usually are displayed in the feet. This condition can make a patient’s ability to walk unbearable. Systemic diseases include gout, diabetes mellitus, neurological disorders, and arthritis.
Gout – is caused by an excess of uric acid in the body. Common symptoms include pain, inflammation, and redness at the metatarsal/phalangeal joint of the base big toe. Gout can be treated by NSAIDs to relieve pain and inflammation, and other drugs that lower the acid levels in the body.
Diabetes mellitus – is an increase in the level of blood sugar that the body cannot counteract with its own insulin. Failure to produce enough insulin is a factor in Diabetes.
Diabetes of the Feet
Diabetic Neuropathy – may lead to damaged nerves and affect the feet through numbness and loss of sensation.
Peripheral Vascular Disease – can restrict the blood flow to the feet, and often times lead to amputation of the feet.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Chicago, IL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
