Psoriasis of the Feet 2026: Symptoms & Podiatry Treatment

Quick answer: Psoriasis Of The Feet affects roughly 1 in 4 adults in our practice. Effective treatment starts with a targeted diagnosis, conservative-first treatment, and escalation only when needed. We treat this regularly at our Howell and Bloomfield Hills practices. Call (810) 206-1402.

✅ Medically reviewed by Dr. Tom Biernacki, DPM — Board-Certified Podiatrist · Last updated April 6, 2026

Psoriasis Of The Feet Treatment Symptoms & Best Treatment

Psoriasis of the feet can cause:

1. Thick skin

2. Redness & inflammation as well as 

3. Toenail psoriasis with nail pitting! Treat It NOW!

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What Is Psoriasis:

• Psoriasis is an immune disease & the cause is unknown.
• It is unfortunately a condition that you have to learn to live with for the rest of your life.
• Foot Psoriasis: The Prevention and Causes Guide to Psoriasis!

Book Your Psoriasis Evaluation

Bright Future For Psoriasis Of The Feet:

• There Is No Cure, But There Are Amazing Treatments.
• They are getting better every year, in fact over the past 10 years research is showing drugs that display a decreased toxicity while achieving better results.
• Combine these systemic medication innovations with topical creams and UV therapy – The future is very bright!

Psoriasis Of The Feet Treatment:

• The medical plan is to use topical or photo(light) treatment along with a systemic medication.
• In this guide I will focus on home treatments that should be used for non-severe cases of psoriasis.
• Always see your podiatrist or dermatologist for more Severe Cases!

Notice any of these symptoms? Schedule a foot exam today.

Home Treatment

Moisturizing Is CRUCIAL!!!!

• Petroleum jelly is the cheapest, but any moisturizing lotion (Aloe or Cocoa Butter etc) should work.
• Oils: vegetable & mineral etc- have been reported to work as well.
• Try to avoid the cheap versions if they irritate your skin (if there is harsh chemical it might make things worse!
• Apply it at night and cover it up with some socks on so it doesn’t get into your bed sheets. This will soften your skin all night so that it is soft and less painful in the morning.
• Plastic wrap works great to hold the moisture in as well (but too well for the entire night). Use this just during the day.
• The more times you do this, the easier it will be to remove the hard skin later.
• Warning: It is important to not get the lotion in between your toes, this could cause peeling.
• Combine this after a foot bath for boosted effect!

Always Moisturize After Using Soap!

• Soap dries out the skin.
• Always make sure to moisturize after getting your skin sweaty, taking a shower & especially when using soap!
• This will soften the thick skin and prevent it from appearing!

Book Your Psoriasis Evaluation

Soak The Hard Skin:

• Use warm water (but not hot) and mix it in with some epsom salts (1/2 cup or as directed for you volume of water).
• Epsom salts are not the most medically backed option, but they do soak more water into the outer skin and make it softer.
• Do this while watching TV for 20-30 minutes or so.
• Moisturize with the step above overnight for added effect.

Use A Pumice Stone or Emery Board!

• Get an Emery Board or Pumice Stone.
• After the skin is softened for a couple days, gently debride it.
• Stop when you feel pain, but usually you won’t feel a thing until it gets very deep to normal skin
• Never use something sharp at home.
• Don’t do this if a diabetic or you have decreased sensation!

Synthetic Socks:

• Cotton holds sweat and water, dehydrating your skin.
• Think about synthetic socks if you spend a good deal amount of time on your feet.

If Itching and Irritation, Use 1% Hydrocortisone:

• This is a great cheap anti-inflammatory agent.
• You can get it at most corner stores for about 5$.
• Use it for cases of itching and irritation, but don’t use it everyday.
• If this doesn’t help, go see your podiatrist for the stronger stuff.

Get Relief & Support With Expert Care and Custom 3D Orthotic

Seniors with neuropathy often struggle with pain and balance. At Balance Foot & Ankle Specialist, we provide gentle evaluations, personalized treatment, and custom 3D orthotics to reduce pain and improve walking stability.

• Reduces pressure on sensitive nerves
• Improves balance to prevent falls
• Supports arches and joints for safer walking
• Supports arches and joints for safer walking
• Can slow neuropathy progression with early intervention

Book Your Neuropathy Evaluation (810) 206-1402 Toenail Fungus Treatment cure” width=”800″ height=”2000″>

Trusted Footwear Recommendations From Michigan’s Leading Podiatrists

Dr. Tom Biernacki DPM (Podiatrist, Wound Care, Foot & Ankle Specialist)

Dr. Tom Biernacki, DPM, is a highly respected and experienced podiatrist proudly serving patients in Howell, Michigan, and throughout Oakland County. With a strong commitment to personalized patient care, Dr. Biernacki specializes in diagnosing and treating a many foot and ankle conditions, including chronic foot pain, sports injuries, diabetic foot care, and structural deformities. His practice offers comprehensive services such as routine foot care, advanced wound care, and both non-surgical and surgical solutions for complex issues affecting the lower extremities. Known for his compassionate approach and attention to detail, Dr. Biernacki works closely with each patient to create a customized treatment plan that ensures the best possible outcome.

Dr. Carl Jay DPM (Podiatric Surgeon & Foot Doctor)

Dr. Carl Jay is a board-certified foot and ankle surgeon and proud partner at Balance Foot & Ankle. After completing his residency at the Genesys Regional Medical Center program, he took his talents to Texas. There he covered trauma call, treated complex wounds in the Wound Care Center, and cared for a many patients in private practice, from diabetic limb preservation to sports medicine. Dr. Jay certainly enjoyed practicing in the Lone Star State. (I mean that amazing warm weather and sunshine.)Family brought him back to Michigan. Now serving the Detroit Metro area, Dr. Jay brings advanced treatment modalities and years of surgical and clinical experience to every patient encounter. He’s passionate about delivering expert, compassionate care that helps people move better and live better. Over 10,000 Patients Helped Advanced 3D Orthotic Scanning

Frequently Asked Questions

What is psoriasis of the feet?

Psoriasis of the feet is a chronic skin condition caused by an overactive immune response that leads to thick, red, scaly patches on the soles, heels, or sides of the feet. It can cause cracking, itching, burning, and pain when walking.

What causes psoriasis on the feet? Psoriasis is not caused by infection. It is linked to immune system dysfunction and can be triggered by stress, illness, cold weather, skin injuries, or certain medications. Genetics also play a significant role. Is foot psoriasis contagious? No. Psoriasis of the feet is not contagious and cannot be spread through touch, shared footwear, or walking barefoot in public areas. How is psoriasis of the feet different from athlete’s foot? Psoriasis and athlete’s foot can look similar, but they are very different conditions. Athlete’s foot is a fungal infection, while psoriasis is an autoimmune condition. Psoriasis often causes thicker plaques and cracking, while fungal infections usually involve itching and peeling between the toes. A podiatrist can accurately diagnose the difference. How is psoriasis of the feet treated? Treatment may include medicated creams or ointments, anti-inflammatory medications, moisturizing therapies, and lifestyle adjustments. In more severe cases, oral or injectable medications may be recommended. A podiatrist can create a treatment plan based on the severity and symptoms. When should I see a podiatrist for foot psoriasis? You should see a podiatrist if foot psoriasis is painful, cracking, bleeding, interfering with walking, or not responding to over-the-counter treatments. Professional care can help reduce flare-ups, prevent infection, and improve comfort.

Relief From Foot Psoriasis Starts With Expert Care

Get an accurate diagnosis, personalized treatment, and long-lasting relief from a trusted podiatrist. Schedule Your Appointment Call Us Today

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Related Treatment Guides

• Plantar Fasciitis & Heel Pain Treatment
• Custom 3D Orthotics
• Foot & Ankle Arthritis Treatment

Medical References & Sources

• American Podiatric Medical Association — Patient Education
• American Orthopaedic Foot & Ankle Society — Foot Conditions

Clinical References

1. Menter A, et al. Guidelines of care for the management of psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis. J Am Acad Dermatol. 2008;58(5):826-850.
2. Farley E, Masrour S, McKey J, Menter A. Palmoplantar psoriasis: a phenotypical and clinical review. J Am Acad Dermatol. 2009;60(6):1024-1031.
3. Raposo I, Torres T. Palmoplantar psoriasis and palmoplantar pustulosis: current treatment and future prospects. Am J Clin Dermatol. 2016;17(4):349-358.

In-Office Treatment at Balance Foot & Ankle

If home treatment isn’t providing relief for your foot skin conditions, our podiatry team at Balance Foot & Ankle can help with same-day evaluations and advanced in-office care.

Frequently Asked Questions

When should I see a podiatrist?

If symptoms persist past 2 weeks, affect your normal activity, or are accompanied by red-flag symptoms (warmth, redness, swelling, inability to bear weight).

What does treatment cost?

Most diagnostic visits and conservative treatments are covered by Medicare and major insurers. Out-of-pocket costs vary by your specific plan.

How quickly can I get an appointment?

Most non-urgent cases see us within 5 business days. Urgent cases (sudden pain, possible fracture) typically same or next business day.