What should you know about psoriatic arthritis sausage fingers?

A sausage finger, also called dactylitis, is swelling that extends along much or all of a finger or toe. Psoriatic arthritis commonly presents with this type of diffuse digit swelling because inflammation can involve more than a single knuckle. The digit may feel tender, warm or stiff, and bending it may become difficult. A swollen digit is not enough to confirm the condition: infection, injury and other inflammatory disorders can look similar. Skin plaques, nail changes, morning stiffness or pain in other joints can help a clinician interpret the finding.

Remove tight rings promptly if swelling is developing. Note whether the swelling appeared suddenly, whether the skin is broken and whether you have psoriasis or other joint symptoms. Rest from gripping that aggravates pain, while keeping gentle movement within comfort. Arrange medical review for a new or persistent swollen digit; early assessment can protect movement. See [Joint Swelling](/symptoms/joint-swelling/) and [Psoriatic Arthritis](/conditions/psoriatic-arthritis/) for related information.

Seek urgent care if the finger is rapidly becoming hot, red and severely painful, if pus or fever is present, or if an injury has caused deformity, numbness or loss of circulation. Prompt review is also needed when swelling prevents you removing a ring. These features may indicate infection, injury or circulation trouble rather than an arthritis flare.

Does the swelling involve the whole digit or a particular joint? Should I have tests or imaging? How can I protect movement while it settles? Would medication or [Physiotherapy](/treatments/physiotherapy-and-rehabilitation/physiotherapy/) be appropriate?