Can Psoriatic Arthritis Cause Foot Pain?

Gary Johnstone Category 01


Ever woken up feeling like you’ve walked miles in your sleep, with aching feet that scream with every step?

If you’ve been struggling with persistent foot pain, particularly if it’s accompanied by psoriasis or other autoimmune symptoms, you might be dealing with something called psoriatic arthritis (PsA). I’ve talked with plenty of patients who’ve felt relief just knowing what’s going on, even if the reality isn’t ideal.

Why psoriatic arthritis affects your feet

PsA isn’t just joint pain; it affects how your body deals with inflammation. For a lot of people, myself included at times, this means waking up to stiffness and pain in the feet. The inflammation commonly affects points where tendons and ligaments attach to bones—a condition known as enthesitis. You might notice intense pain at the heel (think Achilles tendon) or beneath your foot, similar to plantar fasciitis.

I’ve had patients tell me their toes swell like sausages—that’s called dactylitis, another common symptom of PsA. And it’s not just a bit uncomfortable; it can seriously impact your daily routine.

How psoriatic arthritis feels in your feet

Everyone experiences pain differently, but there’s a few key patterns I’ve seen. Pain often feels worse after rest, like getting out of bed or standing up after sitting for a long time. Movement can sometimes ease the pain, though not always completely.

Some days, the pain in your feet might feel like sharp, stabbing sensations. Other days it’s a constant dull ache. I’ve also noticed from personal experience that foot pain from PsA often comes with noticeable swelling or stiffness that can make simple tasks challenging.

In fact, for some people, walking can become a major issue. It’s not just about the physical discomfort; dealing with chronic foot pain can be mentally draining too.

Managing psoriatic arthritis foot pain without surgery

Thankfully, there’s plenty you can do without immediately jumping to surgical options. Managing inflammation is key, so treatments often start with medications like anti-inflammatories or DMARDs, prescribed by your rheumatologist.

However, in my practice, I’ve found great success in managing symptoms through podiatric care. Treatments like radial shockwave therapy help relieve chronic inflammation effectively. Pairing this with custom orthotics often gives people back their mobility and comfort.

Regular stretching and gentle exercise routines, created specifically for arthritis sufferers, also go a long way. Consulting our podiatry team for gait analysis can identify biomechanical factors making your foot pain worse, giving us a clearer path to relief.

Lifestyle changes that make a real difference

I know it sounds cliché, but trust me—wearing supportive shoes can dramatically change your quality of life when you’re dealing with PsA. Shoes with plenty of cushioning, good arch support, and enough space to accommodate swelling can ease symptoms significantly.

If you need recommendations, our clinics in Port Melbourne , Elsternwick, or Williamstown can guide you through choosing footwear tailored specifically for arthritis.

Understanding what’s happening to your nails

Another often overlooked symptom of PsA is changes to your toenails. Nails can become thickened, ridged, or even detach slightly. It’s a sign that your inflammation isn’t just limited to joints and tendons.

Proper foot care routines can keep nail discomfort manageable. Don’t hesitate to ask our team for guidance or treatment options if nail issues become problematic.

Know when to seek professional help

I always emphasise early intervention. Psoriatic arthritis can be progressive, and the earlier you tackle symptoms, the better your outcomes. If you’re noticing consistent foot pain, swelling, or stiffness, book an appointment with us online through our online booking page. You deserve a clear action plan.

If you’re unsure whether your foot pain is related to PsA, checking out this Mayo Clinic guide or this Cleveland Clinic resource can offer valuable insights.

Take charge of your foot health today

Don’t let chronic foot pain control your life. With the right guidance, personalised treatments, and practical lifestyle tweaks, managing PsA symptoms becomes far more achievable.

If you’re struggling with foot pain linked to psoriatic arthritis, reach out to our friendly team at Up & Running Podiatry today—we’re here to support every step you take.

Disclaimer: I’m sharing my insights and experiences, but please remember, this isn’t medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis and personalised treatment plan.

Share:
Dive into the thrilling world of Plinko Australia at Lucky Green Casino! Play today and aim for huge wins!
Ready to roll? Mega Dice brings Aussie players fast action, crypto thrills, and massive wins!
Step right up, Aussies! Lucky Circus Casino brings thrilling games, wild bonuses, and a jackpot show like no other!
Fast, fun, and full of wins! Swiper Casino brings Aussies nonstop gaming, wild bonuses, and smooth crypto play!
Aussies, your spin to win starts now! Spinjo Casino brings the fun, the flair, and the fortune!
Uncover jackpot secrets at Decode Casino! Aussie players, dive into encrypted fun and high-stakes rewards!
Night or day, your luck takes flight at Lucky Owl Club Casino! Aussie players, get ready for thrilling spins and wise rewards!
Rule the reels at Royal Reels Casino! Aussie players, enjoy majestic wins and royal crypto rewards!
Discover nonstop thrills at https://casinonine9.com/! Aussie players, spin big, win bigger, and enjoy lightning-fast crypto rewards!