8 Ways to Manage Palmoplantar Psoriasis

Do you have recurring, itchy, red patches on the palm of your hand or the soles of your feet? You could be suffering from palmoplantar psoriasis. This chronic skin condition can be very uncomfortable, extremely painful, embarrassing, and difficult to manage. Even worse, it manifests in the palms of your hands and soles of your feet so mobility is greatly affected. To help you cope with this debilitating disease, read on for some useful tips on managing palmoplantar psoriasis so that it doesn’t get in the way of your daily routine.

What is Palmoplantar Psoriasis?

Quite literally, the term is derived from the Latin words “palmo” which means hand, and “planta” meaning “sole.” Palmoplantar psoriasis (PPP), also known as palmar and plantar psoriasis, is a type of psoriasis that affects the palms and soles of the feet. It is characterized by red patches on hands or feet that are covered with flaky white skin called plaques. They can be painful and itchy, and the palm side of the hand and the soles of the foot are more likely to be affected by palmoplantar psoriasis than the other sides.

Palmoplantar Psoriasis: Causes and Triggers

There are several factors being studied but the exact cause of psoriasis is unknown, more so of what causes it to be concentrated on the palms and soles. Genetics may be one of them but is not the only cause of palmoplantar psoriasis, although it does increase your chance that you will develop it too.

Usually, an overactive immune system triggers the inflammation. It may also be triggered by stress, an infection or injury like a burn or cut, dryness, and skin cracks on the hands and feet. The condition can also occur as an allergic reaction or due to taking certain medications.

Palmoplantar Psoriasis: Symptoms and Impact on Daily Life

Palmoplantar psoriasis is a chronic condition, which means it may last years without any signs of improvement. It can lead to significant parts of the palm pain or discomfort. It may also cause embarrassment and shame due to the appearance of this skin condition.

It can make it difficult for you to do everyday tasks, such as going grocery shopping, exercising at a gym, playing with kids or pets outside in public places, and even holding a job. Symptoms of palmar and plantar psoriasis typically occur on both feet, or palms, but can also affect one foot or palm at a time. Symptoms include:

• Red, itchy patches
• Thickened skin
• Flaking and scaly skin
• Lesions and painful cracks

Symptoms can come on suddenly or slowly worsen over time. They usually develop gradually but a flare may occur from stress, injury to the affected area, a strep throat infection or other infections, fever and exposure to certain medications.

Ways To Manage Palmoplantar Psoriasis

Treatment options vary from person to person depending on the severity of the symptoms. There are many ways, including but not limited to:

1. Identify triggers and avoid them

While palmoplantar psoriasis is not entirely curable or preventable, you can reduce your chances of developing this skin condition by identifying triggers that may cause palmoplantar psoriasis flare ups (i.e. cold weather, stress) and avoiding them.

2. Maintain a healthy lifestyle

You should maintain a healthy lifestyle with plenty of sleep and having a balanced food intake to help in managing symptoms and improve your overall health at the same time.

3. Exercise

Keeping your body fit is also important for managing palmoplantar psoriasis, but be careful not to do anything too strenuous, as this could cause the patches to peel and bleed.

Maintaining a healthy and fit lifestyle helps manage PPP symptoms

4. Moisturize

Keep your skin moisturized at all times by using moisturizing lotions or creams, and applying them on the affected areas at least twice a day. Opt for moisturizers that contain natural and organic components.

5. Avoid irritants and trauma

Avoid trauma to patches by wearing gloves or socks when moving around outside in cold weather or if you are handling sharp objects like gardening utensils. Other than trauma, these protect the palmar and plantar psoriasis patches from heat and friction that can make them worse. Remember to choose gloves, socks, and shoes that do not irritate your skin, and avoid walking barefoot.

6. Take Vitamin D supplements

Taking vitamin D supplements may also be helpful in boosting your immune system and alleviating symptoms if you have been diagnosed with palmoplantar psoriasis.

7. Go for mild options

The COVID pandemic undoubtedly brought about a safety and sanitation frenzy all over the world, and people have been washing and cleaning their palms more than ever. This increased use of aggressive soaps and sanitizing agents can cause a prevalence of skin irritation and inflammation, so much more for people with palmoplantar psoriasis. To avoid this, do not use harsh soaps and detergents that can dry out your skin. Instead, use liquid cleansers or milder bar soap that are specifically designed for sensitive skin.

8. Use topical relievers

Using doctor prescribed topical treatments may help relieve redness and itch within a few days. Do not continue the treatment longer than two weeks though because it may cause side effects. Applying a wet dressing containing zinc oxide or petroleum jelly can also help temporarily reduce the itching.

How do I know which palmoplantar psoriasis treatment is right for me?

Before anything else, you should speak with your dermatologist to determine which palmoplantar psoriasis treatments are most appropriate and effective for you. They will be able to take a closer look at palmoplantar psoriasis symptoms, review possible causes of palmoplantar psoriasis (i.e. stress, weather change), and determine treatments and ways to manage palmoplantar psoriasis based on your lifestyle and medical history.

Topical creams and ointments may help but not recommended for long-term use

If palmoplantar psoriasis becomes severe and interferes with daily activities or sleep quality, make an appointment with a dermatologist to discuss other treatment options that you can try. In some cases, it can also be a sign of an underlying disease such as arthritis, diabetes, shingles, lupus, and thyroid problems. If flare-ups persist for several weeks or get worse despite treatment, see your doctor.

The 3HX™ Solution for Managing Palmoplantar Psoriasis

Palmoplantar psoriasis is a serious condition that has an effect on nearly every aspect of one’s movement and quality of life. At Medovie, we recognize that managing palmoplantar psoriasis flare-ups is crucial so it does not hinder you from carrying out even the simplest of your daily activities.

Medovie’s 3HX™ solution is suitable for people who are prone to palmoplantar psoriasis and with its use, it is possible to leave the skin feeling revitalised, replenished, and restored. Medovie is a restless company that is dedicated to our mission of helping people who are suffering from chronic skin conditions. Our scalp and body solutions are all-natural and science-proven safe and effective in providing long-term holistic support to those battling chronic skin diseases.

Watch Alison’s journey and how Medovie products helped manage her chronic skin condition.

To learn more about 3HX™ backed ways to manage palmoplantar psoriasis, contact us today to schedule your consultation with our scientific founder or one of our team members who will be happy to answer all of your questions.