Musculoskeletal
Swelling or puffiness of the hands
Swelling is another typical early symptom of scleroderma, and this may be especially noticeable upon waking up in the morning due to muscle inactivity at night. The skin of the fingers may look full and sausage-like, making it difficult to close the hand into a fist. Exercising the fingers and toes can help. Your physician may recommend medications to reduce inflammation.
Pain and stiffness of the joints
Symptoms of pain, stiffness, warmth or tenderness may accompany the arthritis-like joint inflammation which frequently occurs in scleroderma. Muscle pain and weakness are other important symptoms. Aspirin or aspirin-like medications (nonsteroidal, anti-inflammatory prescriptions drugs) can help.