Managing symptoms of psoriatic arthritis: Practical advice for relief
Psoriatic arthritis (PsA) is an inflammatory condition that affects people with psoriasis, causing joint pain, inflammation, and stiffness. While there is no cure for PsA, a combination of self-care tips and medical treatments can help manage symptoms and improve quality of life.
Stress is a known trigger for both psoriasis and PsA. Managing stress is essential, and techniques such as meditation, visualization, deep breathing, yoga, massage, and mindfulness can help reduce PsA flares. Additionally, engaging in relaxing activities like journaling, warm baths, and massage therapy can aid in stress management and symptom relief.
A dietitian can help a person create an eating plan to manage PsA symptoms while ensuring they get enough essential nutrients. Foods with omega-3 fatty acids, such as fish and nuts, may be beneficial for joint health, and a diet rich in fruits and vegetables, especially those with plenty of antioxidants, can help manage arthritis. Conversely, foods high in sugar and processed foods high in saturated and trans fats should be avoided as they can contribute to inflammation.
Exercise is key to managing PsA. It can help reduce pain, ease stiffness, improve mood, and protect overall health. However, it's important to rest after exercise to avoid putting excessive stress on the joints and triggering a flare-up. The Arthritis Foundation recommends aerobic exercise, strength training, stretching-based practices like yoga and tai chi, and avoiding exercises that put too much force on the joints.
Adequate sleep is crucial for people with PsA. Poor sleep can worsen symptoms, so improving sleep hygiene by maintaining a dark, comfortable room and a consistent sleep schedule is recommended.
Supportive footwear and assistive devices can help reduce joint strain and improve stability. Managing triggers and maintaining a healthy diet can support the immune system and reduce inflammation. Seeking professional support, including therapy or support groups, can help manage stress, anxiety, and the emotional impact of PsA.
Acupuncture and acupressure may provide complementary pain relief, but they carry a risk of triggering skin symptoms in some people with psoriasis. More studies are needed to fully understand their potential benefits for managing chronic PsA pain.
Regular appointments with a doctor are beneficial for people with psoriasis to monitor the progression of the condition and assess the efficacy of their current treatment plan. If you experience constant painful, stiff, or swollen joints, it's important to contact your doctor.
Quitting smoking may help manage symptoms of PsA and make treatment more effective. Obesity increases the risk of PsA and can apply extra pressure on the joints, contributing to low level, chronic inflammation. Maintaining a moderate weight can reduce this risk.
Medical treatments for PsA can include medications that reduce inflammation, corticosteroid injections, biologics, and disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drugs. It's important for a person to contact a doctor for advice on how to ease into a workout program and for advice on what exercises and level of activity are suitable based on their PsA symptoms.
Together, these techniques form a holistic approach to stress relief, which may reduce inflammation and enhance quality of life for people with psoriatic arthritis.
[1] National Psoriasis Foundation. (2021). Psoriatic Arthritis: Medications. https://www.psoriasis.org/about-psoriasis/psoriatic-arthritis/treatments/medications
[2] National Psoriasis Foundation. (2021). Psoriatic Arthritis: Lifestyle. https://www.psoriasis.org/about-psoriasis/psoriatic-arthritis/treatments/lifestyle
[3] Mayo Clinic. (2021). Psoriatic arthritis. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/psoriatic-arthritis/symptoms-causes/syc-20355777
[4] Arthritis Foundation. (2021). Psoriatic Arthritis. https://www.arthritis.org/diseases/psoriatic-arthritis
[5] American College of Rheumatology. (2021). Psoriatic Arthritis. https://www.rheumatology.org/I-Am-A/Patient-Caregiver/Diseases-Conditions/Psoriatic-Arthritis
- The National Psoriasis Foundation provides information on medications for managing psoriatic arthritis (PsA).
- The National Psoriasis Foundation also offers guidance on lifestyle factors that can help people with PsA.
- Mayo Clinic explains that psoriatic arthritis is a condition affecting people with psoriasis, causing joint pain, inflammation, and stiffness.
- The Arthritis Foundation offers comprehensive resources on PsA, including its symptoms, causes, and treatments.
- The American College of Rheumatology provides detailed information about PsA, aiming to assist patients and caregivers.
- Meditation, visualization, deep breathing, yoga, massage, and mindfulness can help reduce PsA flares and manage stress.
- Journaling, warm baths, and massage therapy can aid in stress management and symptom relief for people with PsA.
- A dietitian can help create an eating plan to manage PsA symptoms while ensuring adequate nutrient intake, emphasizing foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids, fruits, vegetables, and antioxidants.
- Foods high in sugar and processed foods should be avoided to minimize inflammation and manage PsA symptoms.
- Exercise is beneficial for managing PsA symptoms, reducing pain, easing stiffness, improving mood, and protecting overall health.
- Rest and avoiding exercises that put too much force on joints are important for managing symptoms and preventing flare-ups after exercise.
- Adequate sleep is crucial for people with PsA, and good sleep hygiene can help alleviate symptoms.
- Supportive footwear, assistive devices, and managing triggers can help reduce joint strain, improve stability, and support the immune system, reducing inflammation in people with PsA. Additionally, seeking professional support for mental health, such as therapy or support groups, can help manage stress, anxiety, and the emotional impact of the condition. Acupuncture and acupressure may provide complementary pain relief but carry a risk of triggering skin symptoms in some people with psoriasis. More studies are needed to fully understand their potential benefits for managing chronic PsA pain. Regular appointments with a doctor are essential to monitor the progression of the condition and assess the efficacy of the treatment plan. If you experience constant painful, stiff, or swollen joints, it's crucial to contact your doctor.
