Definition of psoriatic arthritis
Psoriatic arthritis is a chronic inflammatory rheumatic illness that falls under the category of seronegative spondylarthritis since it frequently affects the spine and axial bones. make psoriatic arthritis diagnosis simple, but this isn't always the case.
In other words, psoriasis can develop before arthritis does, and not all arthritis that develops in people with psoriasis is psoriatic arthritis.
Although this type of arthritis affects specific joints, practically any joint might be
impacted.
Most patients first experience psoriasis before being identified as having psoriatic arthritis. The appearance of arthritis may precede the appearance of psoriasis, while on the other hand, any arthritis that occurs in psoriasis is not always psoriatic arthritis.
Psoriatic arthritis's specific cause is not known. Psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis are conditions that are thought to have a strong hereditary component that either causes or predisposes a person to acquire them. Additionally, there is evidence that illness or trauma may have a role because they both set off the body's inflammatory response.
Characteristics
Its symptoms include red patches on the skin that frequently peel and are simple to remove. Skin abnormalities, potential joint involvement, and typical accompanying disorders are all included (rheumatoid arthritis and chronic inflammatory bowel disease).
Psoriasis commonly develops on the scalp, knees, elbows, and the region above the sacrum. Skin changes often first manifest in psoriatic arthritis before the arthritis, which is defined by joint inflammation.
It's vital to note that there are remission stages in psoriatic arthritis while discussing the condition.
Psoriatic arthritis cannot be cured. To stop additional harm to the joints, treatment aims to reduce and manage symptoms. Psoriatic arthritis can be crippling if neglected.
Mitigating the situation
You should let your therapist know that you have psoriatic arthritis before beginning any of these therapies.
Therapy
Increased movement is the greatest treatment for psoriatic arthritis symptoms. Joint discomfort
can be reduced by exercise, such as walking, yoga, tai chi, or swimming. Perform activities to make your joints and supporting muscles stronger.
Ask your doctor or physiotherapist for advice on the workout program that will work best for you. You may also unwind your muscles and get relief from the uncomfortable psoriatic arthritis symptoms by getting a good massage.
Psoriatic arthritis pain can also be effectively treated with acupuncture and acupressure.
Footwear
Suitable footwear and orthotics that alleviate pressure on the afflicted regions and encourage good biomechanics are essential.
These will lessen the pressure and stress placed on the troubled joints, which will lessen the frequency and severity of flare-ups. Additionally, by removing pressure points from the foot, this helps to prevent plaques from psoriasis from accumulating.
An evaluation of your feet by a chiropodist might help you locate the best treatments for your psoriatic arthritis.
Medication
Medication: There are two classes of drugs that can alleviate the symptoms of psoriatic arthritis.
Anti-inflammatory drugs
As their name implies, these drugs lessen inflammation, which lessens stiffness and makes it simpler for the joints to move. Aspirin, Ibuprofen, and naproxen are a few examples.
Prednisone and cortisone, among others, are sometimes prescribed or administered intravenously.
Anti-rheumatic drugs
These drugs aim to block the disease-causing auto-immune response while suppressing the immune system.