Do rashes cause feet/joint problems?

History: I had plantar fascitis last May and was on anti-inflamatory meds (from Advil to Mobic). I got off of my hormone therapy the last week of July (and have felt so much better mentally--less draggy, and realized I didn't have a depression. I developed a rash the first week of August. Two things stood out: had some oriental rugs brought to my house for possible purchase and also did some serious transplanting of primroses. I first noticed the skin above my knees was raised (like elephant skin)and seemed flat white raised bumps under the skin. It was there, on my shins and backs of upper/lower arms. Itched like crazy for a few days--scratch one site and they all went crazy! Then only sporadically. Cortisone creams made it itch more--anything that kept it moist did that. Stopped using all lotions. Only Ivy Rest or Witch Hazel helped. It is mid October and August 24-25 I had a fever and dizziness. In late August, Sept, my feet started to hurt(plantar fascitis disappeared), my knees ache and my legs ache. I can hardly walk. Is there any connection? Been to internist and dermatologist. Diagnosis: Possible contact dermatitis, viral, or ecxema. The rash can still be felt and will turn red if scratched. What's going on?

[Alan Rockoff, MD]

I don't know.  The constellation fo signs and symptoms you describe does not add up to any condition with which I'm familiar.  I suggest ignoring the symptoms if possible, or treating them with mositure lotions if the bumps trouble you.  If the rash gets worse, perhaps your dermatologist can do a biopsy.

Best.

Dr. Rockoff