5 Fast Facts About Foot Psoriasis
Dealing with itchy, painful, or scaly feet? You might be experiencing foot psoriasis—a form of psoriasis that affects the soles, toes, and sometimes even the toenails. While it’s not always easy to spot, understanding this condition is key to managing it effectively. To help you better understand this condition, Clifton Foot & Ankle Center has outlined 5 fast facts about foot psoriasis you need to know:
1. Foot Psoriasis Is a Type of Plaque Psoriasis
Foot psoriasis, also called palmoplantar psoriasis, usually appears as thick, red, scaly patches on the soles of the feet. These plaques are often dry and can crack or bleed, making walking uncomfortable.
2. It’s Often Misdiagnosed as Athlete’s Foot
Because foot psoriasis can resemble a fungal infection, it’s sometimes confused with athlete’s foot. However, foot psoriasis isn’t contagious and won’t respond to antifungal treatments.
Pro Tip: If standard antifungals don’t help, ask your dermatologist to consider psoriasis.
3. Triggers Include Stress, Infections, and Injuries
Like other types of psoriasis, foot flare-ups can be triggered by stress, skin trauma, cold weather, or certain medications. Keeping a trigger journal can help identify what causes your symptoms to worsen.
4. It Can Affect Your Toenails Too
Foot psoriasis doesn’t just impact skin—it can also affect your toenails. Nail psoriasis may cause pitting, thickening, discoloration, or even nail separation. Nail changes are often a sign of more severe or systemic psoriasis.
Look out for: Discoloration, lifting nails, or unusual thickness.
5. There Are Effective Treatments Available
Topical steroids, vitamin D creams, light therapy, and even oral or injectable biologics can help manage foot psoriasis. Moisturizing daily and wearing soft, breathable shoes also help reduce irritation.
Important: Always see a doctor for a personalized treatment plan.
Foot psoriasis can be painful, persistent, and tough to treat, but you don’t have to live with it in silence. Understanding the condition is the first step toward relief. If you suspect you have psoriasis on your feet, talk to a doctor and get the care you deserve.
For more foot care facts and advice, consult Dr. Kenneth R. Wilhelm at Clifton Foot & Ankle Center in Fairfax County, Virginia, about any podiatric concerns you’re facing. Set up an appointment today to find relief!
