Psoriatic Arthritis

Psoriasis is a common, chronic skin condition that causes red patches throughout the skin. 5% of psoriasis patients develop Psoriatic Arthritis. Genetics may play a role in determining which Psoriasis patients develop arthritis. Psoriasis patients tend to be at an increased risk of arthritis.

Psoriatic Arthritis Symptoms

The main symptom of Psoriatic Arthritis is obviously Skin Psoriasis. This type of arthritis tends not to be severe and affects the joints at the end of the fingers or toes. If the disease is not treated and allowed to worsen, Psoriatic Arthritis may become severe and affect many joints throughout the skeletal system, including the spine. Typically with Psoriatic Arthritis, the skin and nails become worse at the same time.

Psoriatic Arthritis Treatment

As with most forms of arthritis, joint inflammation is involved and initial treatment focuses on reducing inflammation. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDS) or salicylates to reduce pain and inflammation of the joints. An anti-inflammatory diet is also possible as many foods have an effect of decreasing inflammation in the body.

If anti-inflammatory drugs or diet do not help, powerful drugs called disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs) are the next form of treatment. Inflammation-blocking medications are also available. If non-invasive treatments do not help, joints may be injected with steroid medications, and if that does not help, surgery to repair or replace damaged joints may be an option. After the surgery or throughout the treatment process, a healthy mix of rest and exercise with physical therapy may help increase the movement of joints. Heat and cold therapy can also help.