Many people don’t associate lupus with foot problems, but as with many multi-system diseases, the feet always find a way to indicate there’s a problem. While lupus often impacts organs like the kidneys, heart, and brain, its effects frequently manifest in the extremities and, along the way, cause many uncomfortable symptoms and secondary foot issues. Today, we at Syracuse Podiatry will go over the common foot and ankle manifestations of lupus and how they impact quality of life.
How Lupus Affects the Feet and Ankles
Lupus is a versatile autoimmune disease that affects multiple systems, including the muscles, circulation, and nerves.
The immune system attacks these systems, which is what people feel in the form of arthritis-like symptoms and more complex ailments affecting blood flow and nerve function. The feet, being weight-bearing and having numerous small joints, are particularly susceptible to these systemic effects.
Common Foot and Ankle Manifestations of Lupus
Arthritis
This is one of the most frequent ways lupus affects the feet. It typically impacts the joints in both feet and although it is not as destructive to the joint cartilage as rheumatoid arthritis, it can still significantly impair mobility and cause discomfort.
Tendonitis
Lupus can cause inflammation of the tendons, but beyond that, it can also loosen them and increase the risk of sprains and other injuries.
Raynaud’s Phenomenon
Although we’re entering summer, lupus can cause blood vessels in the toes to temporarily narrow in response to cold temperatures or stress (aka Raynaud’s phenomenon).
The toes may also undergo distinct color changes.
Circulatory Problems
Lupus can cause vasculitis, which is the inflammation of the blood vessels themselves. In the feet, this can reduce blood flow to the skin, purplish appearing skin, or even ulcers and subsequent skin infections.
Neuropathy
Lupus can affect the peripheral nerves that supply the feet and ankles, causing uncomfortable sensations such as tingling, burning, or numbness in the feet. In some cases, it can also lead to muscle weakness and increase the risk of falls, especially in seniors.
Skin Rashes and Lesions
These can include discoid lesions (thick, scaly, disk-shaped patches) or general redness and inflammation. They can be itchy or painful and may make wearing certain footwear difficult.
Foot Deformities
While not as common as in conditions like advanced rheumatoid arthritis, chronic inflammation from lupus can, in rare cases, lead to foot deformities. For instance, Jaccoud’s arthropathy is a non-erosive deformity sometimes seen in lupus, where the toes may become crooked.
Lupus and Quality of Life
Between the pain, stiffness, and instability, participating in daily activities can be a challenge with lupus.
This discomfort can interfere with sleep, and the risk of non-healing wounds and infections, especially with compromised circulation or sensation, warrant preventative care and management from a trusted podiatrist.
For advice concerning any podiatric concerns you’re dealing with, the expert team at Syracuse Podiatry is here to help guide you. Contact us today so Dr. Ryan L. D’Amico, Dr. Donal M. Erickson, Dr. Keith Sherman, and Dr. Nicholas Cronin can elevate your foot health and help your feet feel their best.