Philadelphia Tri-state Area Podiatrists Answer Foot Health Questions

It could be. If your doctor warned you about systemic sclerosis, you are right to be on the lookout for possible early warning signs. 

In most cases, redness or spotting on the skin in scleroderma patients is caused by telangiectasias. These are tiny blood vessels that burst under the surface of the skin, which gives the affected area a spotted or mottled appearance. These can develop anywhere on the body, but are most commonly seen on a patient’s face, legs, upper thighs, ankles, and just below the knee joint.

Many patients do not like the bruised look that telangiectasias give their skin. Some opt for dermatological treatment, such as pulsed dye laser treatment, to break down the broken blood vessels. However, this treatment commonly takes three to four treatments to work effectively, causes intense stinging sensations on the skin, and may bruise the area for a few weeks afterwards.  

Telangiectasias are usually only a cosmetic problem and do not cause a patient any suffering. However, there have been cases where these blood vessels bleed in dangerous areas of the body (such as the brain), causing complications and potential injury.

If you are having scleroderma problems in PA, you should have any discoloration or redness of the feet inspected by your podiatrist. It could be burst blood vessels, but it could also signify trouble with your circulation, or you may be suffering from an infection. 

The podiatrists at HealthMark Foot & Ankle Associates are available at two different Philadelphia locations to answer your scleroderma questions. Call us today for an appointment in Media at 610-565-3668 or in Phoenixville at 610-933-8644.

If you have been diagnosed with systemic sclerosis, you must constantly be on the lookout for painful or troublesome scleroderma foot symptoms. Here are just a few ways you can spot problems before they become serious health issues:

• Inspect your feet daily. When you get out of the bath or shower, sit down immediately and inspect each foot, including each nail and the areas between the toes. If you see any changes in your skin, nail thickness, or signs of a foot ulcer, seek medical advice as soon as possible.
• Moisturize your feet. You should moisturize your feet at least once daily, preferably up to four times a day. Use a fragrance-free lotion with as few additives as possible, and take care not to leave any lotion between your toes.
• Trim your toenails. Your nails should always be cut in a straight line across the edge of the nail. If you have trouble using nail clippers or your toenails have become too thick for conventional clippers, your podiatrist can trim your nails for you.
• Choose proper footwear. Your shoes should not rub against any portion of your foot and should be wide enough to accommodate your toes without bunching. If your feet are often cold, you may choose shoes with a thicker sole or buy thermal insoles for further protection.
• Ask a podiatrist. Your podiatrist will be able to asses any problems with your feet, as well as recommend a personalized treatment plan to avoid future health problems.

If you have been diagnosed with scleroderma in Phoenixville, the podiatrists at HealthMark Foot & Ankle Associates are available to answer your questions. Call us today for an appointment in Media at 610-565-3668 or in Phoenixville at 610-933-8644.