Information About Psoriasis on the Ankles & Feet
Psoriasis is a chronic inflammatory skin disease that causes round patches of thick, red skin covered with silvery or white scales. It occurs most frequently on the elbows, knees, legs, lower back, scalp and feet. The inflammation of psoriasis and the cracked skin it causes on the bottom on the feet can be quite painful.
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Foot Care
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When your ankle and foot psoriasis flares up, the Psoriasis Support Programme recommends soaking your feet in salt water for 10 minutes three times a day. Spread your toes to make sure the whole foot contacts the water. Dry your feet carefully, being sure to dry between the toes.
Shoes
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The Psoriasis Support Programme also recommends wearing light and comfortable shoes and avoiding shoes with pointed toes, because such shoes can damage both the skin and bones. To relieve pressure on the skin, use foam, cork or water-filled insoles.
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Treatment
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The goal of psoriasis treatment is to reduce inflammation. According to podiatrist Marc Mitnick, topical treatments are common and include hydrocortisone cream, Anthralin, coal-tar ointments, Dovonex and Tazorac. These medications have pros and cons and need to be discussed with your doctor.
Effect of Psoriasis on Toenails
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According to Mitnick, 50 percent of people with psoriasis on the feet eventually develop damage to the growth plates of the toenails. Other toenail changes might include yellow discoloration and detachment and crumbling of the nail.
Considerations
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A possible side effect of psoriasis on the feet is the development of psoriatic arthritis, which according to Mitnick, eventually develops in about 5 to 7 percent of people with foot psoriasis.
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