If you have been diagnosed with systemic sclerosis in Phoenixville, you have probably been warned about taking proper care of your health. Although you may feel like a lot of your former activities are beyond your reach, there are ways to treat your scleroderma symptoms so that you can still live a full and comfortable life.
Our podiatrists can help treat many of your scleroderma foot symptoms, including:
- Skin problems. Many patients with systemic sclerosis will see changes in their skin, such as thickened patches on the tops of the feet. Patients may also notice their skin becoming more dry and itchy.
- Calcinosis. Some patients may experience bumps of calcium forming underneath the surface of the skin, causing pain and discomfort under shoes and clothing. Sometimes the calcium will break through the skin, releasing a soft chalky substance. If you are experiencing calcinosis, you should seek medical advice, as this condition can lead to open sores and serious infections.
- Pressure problems. Scleroderma can weaken and “break up” the tissues in the body, causing changes to the cushioning and surfaces of your feet. Many people with systemic sclerosis suffer changes in the pad of the foot, causing them to feel like they are walking on gravel.
- Nail changes. Patients may undergo many different nail changes. Some may see thickened or yellowed nails, others may experience painful or infected ingrowing nails. In some cases, patients with systemic sclerosis will see the bones at the end of their toes become re-absorbed, altering the shape of the toe.
The trusted Philadelphia podiatrists at HealthMark Foot & Ankle Associates always take a full-body approach to treating painful foot ailments. We can help you cope with your scleroderma symptoms by advising you on proper footwear and padding for your feet, inspecting your nails for signs of infection, and teaching you how to protect yourself against possible health problems.
Call us today at 610-565-3668 in Media office or at 610-933-8644 in Phoenixville to set up your first consultation. You can also click the link on this page to receive a FREE copy of our book, The Foot is Not an Island: Recognizing Vitamin D Deficiency & How to Correct It.