Palmoplantar Psoriasis: When Psoriasis Sweeps Your Feet

Psoriasis is a condition that causes the immune system to attack healthy skin cells. Although this chronic, autoimmune disease can appear anywhere on the body, it is especially prevalent on the feet and toenails. In fact, The National Psoriasis Foundation finds that 40% of psoriasis sufferers’ feet are affected.

We at The Foot & Ankle Center of Maryland want to give you all the important info on palmoplantar psoriasis, so let’s dive in.

Symptoms of Palmoplantar Psoriasis

• Thickened, red skin: Like psoriasis in other areas, the affected skin on your feet may become thick, red, and inflamed.

• Cracked and dry skin: Psoriasis can cause excessive dryness and cracking of the skin, particularly on the heels and soles of the feet.

• Pain and burning: Inflammation and cracking can lead to discomfort, burning sensations, and even pain when walking or standing.

• Nail involvement: Psoriasis can affect the toenails, which causes discoloration, pitting, crumbling, or separation from the nail bed.

• Nail dystrophy: Severe nail involvement can permanently damage the toenails.

Challenges of Palmoplantar Psoriasis

Palmoplantar psoriasis presents unique challenges compared to psoriasis on other parts of the body. The constant friction from shoes and pressure when walking can inflame symptoms. During the summer, when psoriasis can be aggravated by sweat, socks are a risk, yet open-toed shoes can lead to self-consciousness.

Additionally, the thick, cracked skin can harbor bacteria and increase the risk of fungal infections. Since the feet are hard to reach, especially for the disabled or elderly, applying treatment and basic hygiene practices could prove difficult.

Treating Palmoplantar Psoriasis

• Moisturizers: Regularly applying thick, emollient moisturizers can help soften and hydrate the skin.

• Topical medications: Topical corticosteroids are often the first line of treatment to reduce inflammation and scaling. Consult with your podiatrist to see if Vitamin D or other topical medications can also be used.

• Oral medications: In severe cases, oral medications like methotrexate or cyclosporine may be prescribed to suppress the overactive immune system.

• Phototherapy: Light therapy using ultraviolet B rays can be effective in controlling psoriatic symptoms.

Want to address your podiatric health? Contact the office of Dr. Ross Cohen of The Foot & Ankle Center of Maryland in Glen Burnie, MD, at (410) 761-3501 to schedule your next appointment. We can’t wait to see you.