Psoriatic arthritis (PsA) is a chronic inflammatory condition that affects some people with psoriasis, a skin condition characterized by red, scaly patches. While not everyone with psoriasis develops PsA, it’s estimated to affect roughly 1 in 4 people with the skin condition. [1]

Psoriatic Arthritis: Symptoms, Causes, and Treatment Options
A form of arthritis that affects some people who have the skin condition psoriasis. Shutterstock Images

PsA can significantly impact daily life, causing pain, stiffness, and difficulty with movement. However, with proper diagnosis, treatment, and lifestyle changes, many people with PsA can manage their condition effectively and live fulfilling lives. [2]

Psoriatic Arthritis vs. Other Forms of Arthritis

It’s important to understand that PsA is different from other forms of arthritis, like rheumatoid arthritis (RA). While both can cause joint pain and inflammation, PsA often affects different joints and can manifest in additional ways beyond the joints. Additionally, PsA symptoms may come and go in flare-ups, whereas RA symptoms tend to be more persistent.

Symptoms of Psoriatic Arthritis:

PsA symptoms can vary from person to person, and the severity can also fluctuate. Here’s a breakdown of some key signs to watch for: [3]

Joint-related symptoms:

  • Pain: This is a common symptom of PsA, typically affecting the joints in the hands, feet, spine, knees, or ankles. The pain can be dull, aching, or sharp.
  • Stiffness: Particularly noticeable in the mornings or after periods of inactivity, stiffness in the joints can make movement difficult.
  • Swelling: Inflammation can cause joints to appear swollen, red, and tender to the touch.
  • Reduced range of motion: PsA can limit your ability to move your joints through their full range of motion, making everyday tasks challenging.
  • Tenderness: Joints affected by PsA may be sensitive to touch or pressure.

Other symptoms:

  • Fatigue: Many people with PsA experience persistent fatigue, impacting energy levels and overall well-being.
  • Nail changes: Psoriasis can affect the nails, causing them to become pitted, cracked, or separate from the nail bed.
  • Eye inflammation: Uveitis, an inflammation of the eye, can occur in some cases of PsA, causing redness, pain, and blurred vision.

Causes of Psoriatic Arthritis:

The exact cause of PsA remains a mystery, but researchers believe several factors may contribute:

  • Genetics: Having a family history of psoriasis or PsA significantly increases your risk of developing the condition.
  • Immune system dysfunction: PsA is believed to be an autoimmune disease, where the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks healthy tissues.
  • Environmental triggers: Certain factors, like injuries or infections, might trigger the onset of PsA in susceptible individuals.

Treatment Options for Managing Psoriatic Arthritis:

treatment options for managing psoriatic arthritis

Treatment for Psoriatic Arthritis. Shutterstock Image

While there’s no cure for PsA, effective treatment options are available to manage symptoms, improve joint function, and slow disease progression. A multi-pronged approach is often recommended:
Medications:

  • Disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs): These medications can slow the progression of PsA and reduce inflammation. [4]
  • Biologics: Injected or infused medications that target specific inflammatory pathways in the immune system.
  • Pain relievers: Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help manage pain and discomfort.

Physical and occupational therapy: These therapies can improve joint flexibility, strength, and range of motion, helping manage pain and maintain daily activities.
Lifestyle modifications:

  • Maintaining a healthy weight can reduce stress on joints and potentially improve overall symptoms.
  • Regular exercise, tailored to your abilities, can improve flexibility and joint function.
  • Stress management techniques like meditation or yoga can be helpful, as stress can exacerbate PsA symptoms.

Surgery: In severe cases where other treatments haven’t provided adequate relief, surgery may be considered to repair or replace damaged joints.

Living Well with Psoriatic Arthritis:

Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial for managing PsA effectively. Several resources and support groups are available to help you along the way. Connecting with others who understand the challenges of PsA can provide valuable support and encouragement.

By working with your healthcare professional and adopting a personalized treatment plan that includes medication, therapy, and lifestyle modifications, you can manage your PsA symptoms and take charge of your well-being. Remember, PsA doesn’t define you. With the right approach, you can live a full and active life despite this condition.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Psoriatic Arthritis (PsA) presents unique challenges for those affected, but with the right strategies, individuals can lead fulfilling lives despite the condition.

By emphasizing early diagnosis, personalized treatment plans, and a holistic approach encompassing medication, therapy, and lifestyle adjustments, individuals can effectively manage symptoms and regain control over their well-being.

It’s important to recognize that PsA doesn’t define one’s identity; rather, it’s a condition that can be managed with resilience and support. Through access to resources and support networks, individuals can navigate the complexities of PsA, finding strength and solidarity in their journey towards a life filled with vitality and purpose.

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3 Sources

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[1] Tiwari, Vivekanand and Lawrence H. Brent. "StatPearls [Internet]." Psoriatic Arthritis. StatPearls Publishing, 7 Jan. 2024, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK547710.
[2] "Psoriatic arthritis - Symptoms & causes - Mayo Clinic." Mayo Clinic, 2 Oct. 2021, www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/psoriatic-arthritis/symptoms-causes/syc-20354076.
[3] Ogdie A, Myers K, Mansfield C, Tillett W, Nash P, Leach C, Nowell WB, Gavigan K, Zueger P, McDearmon-Blondell E, Walsh J. Experiences and Treatment Preferences in Patients With Psoriatic Arthritis: A Cross-Sectional Study in the ArthritisPower Registry. Rheumatol Ther. 2022 Apr;9(2):735-751. doi: 10.1007/s40744-022-00436-x. Epub 2022 Mar 13. Erratum in: Rheumatol Ther. 2022 Oct;9(5):1477-1480. PMID: 35279798; PMCID: PMC8964868.
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Robert G. Silverman, MS, CCN, CNS, CSCS

Dr. Robert G. Silverman is a chiropractic doctor, clinical nutritionist, and author of 'Inside-Out Health: A Revolutionary Approach to