The Symptoms of Psoriatic Arthritis in the Hands and Feet
Psoriatic arthritis (PsA) is a chronic and progressive form of inflammatory arthritis, causing joint pain, stiffness and swelling. These symptoms can come and go - depending on how severe the condition is in a particular case.
Once you have psoriasis, you are at risk of psoriatic arthritis with an estimated 30% of those with psoriasis developing the condition. The good news is that an early diagnosis helps reduce the risk of any permanent bone or joint damage.
What are the symptoms of psoriatic arthritis in the hands and feet?
- Stiff and swollen fingers which make it hard to perform basic everyday tasks.
- The nails can become discolored (yellowing or browning); they can become thick and pitted; the nail can separate from the nail bed; there can be a chalky buildup under the nail along with nail tenderness or pain. Nail psoriasis can resemble a fungal infection or some can suffer from both conditions at the same time. A nail skin cell sample can be tested for a fungal infection.
- The feet can feel swollen, sore and stiff, making it painful to work or stand for long periods. Other symptoms in the feet can include ankle swelling, toe swelling (especially of the big toe), pain in the bottom of the heel or the Achilles tendon. It is important to take notice of any foot symptoms as if left untreated, foot deformity is possible. A physical or occupational therapist can help with exercises and stretches to avoid stress on the feet, to protect the joints and to keep them flexible.
To sum up, the most common symptoms include:
Joints that are painful, swollen and warm; stiffness, especially in the morning; back pain; pain or tenderness; reduced range of motion; swollen fingers and toes; eye problems including redness, irritation and sensitivity to light; nail changes; and/or fatigue.
Finding relief for psoriatic arthritis
For hands and fingers:- Massaging the affected areas
- Applying a hot or cold compress to reduce swelling
- Wearing hand splints to help stabilize and protect your wrist and fingers
- Taking regular breaks when typing or writing
- Performing hand and wrist exercises to help stretch and strengthen the muscles
- Be proactive in caring for your nails as nail injury can worsen nail psoriasis and trigger flair-ups
- Keep your nails short
- Moisturize nails after soaking
- Wear gloves when doing dishes, housework, or gardening
- Use clear polish (this is because colored polish can mask signs of disease)
- Avoid soaking hands for too long or pushing the cuticles too aggressively (this is because it can lead to tiny tears)
- Wear shoe inserts to help relieve pressure on the feet
- The right footwear is important which should be roomy to accommodate any potential swelling; open-toed can feel more loose; select breathable materials for footwear (leather or canvas); and ensure proper arch support.
Healing Natural Oils have two products to help with relief for psoriatic arthritis
One is H-Arthritis Formula which is a 100% natural product for the symptoms of arthritis. The formula is applied topically and uses established homeopathic ingredients to relieve arthritis discomfort safely and gently. This breakthrough easy delivery method allows for easy application and fast relief!
And the other is H-Psoriasis Formula helping to tackle psoriasis symptoms and many other reactive skin issues (including psoriatic arthritis) naturally. Natural products are generally safe to use, gentle and help soothe the skin rather than irritate it further with harsh chemicals.
For psoriatic arthritis symptoms, use the two products.
Source:
Natural Medicines. Oregon grape. https://naturalmedicines.therapeuticresearch.com. (Accessed Feb 13, 2021).
Kermott CA, et al., eds. Psoriasis. In: Mayo Clinic Book of Home Remedies. 2nd ed. Time; 2017.
.
Bolognia JL, et al., eds. Ultraviolet therapy. In: Dermatology. 4th ed. Saunders Elsevier; 2018. https://www.clinicalkey.com. (Accessed Feb 13, 2021).
Bolognia JL, et al., eds. Systemic immunomodulators. In: Dermatology. 4th ed. Saunders Elsevier; 2018. https://www.clinicalkey.com. (Accessed Feb 13, 2021).
Written by Jane Chitty
Jane writes for Healing Natural Oils, a producer and retailer of high-quality, all-natural treatments for a variety of conditions as well as a range of beauty products. Apart from writing about those various conditions, she also covers general health, environmental and other subjects of interest. She has lived in Kenya as well as Cape Town, South Africa and spent time in San Diego, USA. She now lives in Somerset, England with regular visits from her far-flung children and grandchildren. She is a keen gardener and enjoys growing fresh fruit and vegetables with her husband on their joint allotment. As a result, there is something available to use in the kitchen virtually all year round. Her regular posts can be found on our blog.