10/12/2025
Please have a read of this to spread awareness🙌
Scleroderma is considered a rare disease and affects roughly 18 people per every 100,000 globally. Everyone deserves to have medical professionals know what they are going through & how to help.
https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/scleroderma
One of the complications that may occur in people living with scleroderma is the development of digital ulcers, which are painful open sores that typically appear on the fingers, fingertips, or over the knuckles. These ulcers form primarily due to poor blood circulation caused by Raynaud’s phenomenon and damage to small blood vessels, both common features of systemic sclerosis. Reduced blood flow limits the body's ability to heal minor injuries, allowing small breaks in the skin to become chronic wounds.
In scleroderma, tightening of the skin and underlying tissues combined with narrowed blood vessels increases the risk of tissue injury. Digital ulcers can cause burning pain, tenderness, swelling, and sensitivity, and may interfere with daily activities such as writing, dressing, or using the hands. Healing can be slow, and symptoms may fluctuate, often worsening with cold exposure, stress, or repeated trauma to the affected areas.
Although digital ulcers are visible on the skin, their impact goes beyond what can be seen. Many individuals report disrupted sleep due to pain, limitations in hand function, and emotional distress related to recurrent wounds or fear of infection. When combined with other scleroderma symptoms such as joint stiffness, skin tightening, and fatigue, digital ulcers can significantly affect overall comfort and quality of life.
Diagnosis is typically made through clinical examination, based on the appearance of the ulcer and a person’s history of Raynaud’s phenomenon or systemic sclerosis. Healthcare providers may assess blood flow, rule out infection, and distinguish these ulcers from wounds caused by trauma, pressure, or other medical conditions. Prompt evaluation is essential to prevent complications such as delayed healing or secondary infections.
Management focuses on improving circulation, protecting the skin, and supporting wound healing. This may include keeping the hands warm, avoiding injury, using specialized wound dressings, and applying topical treatments when needed. Medications that improve blood vessel function or promote circulation may also be prescribed. Regular monitoring, proper wound care, and early treatment can help reduce pain and limit complications, even though ulcers may recur over time.
Living with digital ulcers in scleroderma means managing a complication that reflects the underlying vascular nature of the disease. With attentive care, medical support, and shared awareness within the community, individuals can better navigate these challenges and advocate for earlier recognition and improved treatment.
If you experience open sores on the fingers, increasing hand pain, or signs of infection such as redness, warmth, swelling, or unusual discharge, consult your healthcare provider promptly. Early care can make a meaningful difference in healing and overall well-being.
References:
Allanore, Y., Simms, R., Distler, O., Trojanowska, M., Pope, J., Denton, C. P., & Varga, J. (2015). Systemic sclerosis. Nature Reviews Disease Primers, 1, 15002.
Hinchcliff, M., & Varga, J. (2011). Systemic sclerosis/scleroderma: A treatable multisystem disease. American Family Physician, 84(11), 1183–1192.
Herrick, A. L. (2012). Pathogenesis of Raynaud’s phenomenon. Rheumatology, 51(10), 1733–1742.
Disclaimer: This post is for educational and awareness purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. For personal health concerns or symptoms, please consult a qualified healthcare professional.
