An orthopaedic & joint replacement surgeon tells us all you need to know about psoriatic arthritis- symptoms, causes, risk factors, treatment and lifestyle measures to improve your joint health.
Key Highlights
- Psoriatic arthritis is an autoimmune condition where the body attacks its own tissues
- The exact cause of the condition is not clear, and symptoms can vary from person to person
- Diagnosis for psoriatic arthritis is usually based on history and physical examination of the joints, skin, and nails
Photo Credit: Getty Images
New Delhi: Psoriatic arthritis (PsA) is a form of inflammatory arthritis associated with psoriasis - a skin condition characterised by red, scaly skin patches. The prevalence of psoriasis in the general population is one-three per cent, whereas the prevalence of PsA can range between five per cent and 40 per cent amongst people with psoriasis. It is more common in males and it usually appears in the third to fifth decade of life.
Basically, psoriatic arthritis is an autoimmune condition where the body attacks its own tissues. The exact cause of the condition is not clear, however, genetic and environmental factors are known to play a role in its manifestation. PsA can be triggered by stress, smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, and some infections.
Joints related symptoms: PsA causes joint inflammation resulting in pain, swelling, stiffness, and deformity. It commonly affects fingers, wrists, toes, ankles, and knees. Many joints of the body can be affected at the same time. Arthritis can also be symmetrical, i.e. the same joint on both sides of the body can be affected. There may be generalised fatigue. Advanced cases of PsA can result in deformities which are usually seen in the hands and the feet.
Tendon and ligament inflammation: This commonly presents as ankle or heel pain. Sometimes, a combination of tendon and joints inflammation in the hands can result in ‘sausage-shaped’ hand deformity.
Neck and back pain: PsA can affect the joints of the spine which can result in neck and back pain.
Skin and nails: Psoriasis causes dry, red, scaly, and itchy skin rash due to rapid turnover of skin cells. It is commonly seen on the scalp, knees, and elbows, although any part of the body surface can be involved. It can also affect the nails resulting in their discolouration and pitting.
Joint reconstruction surgery may be required in cases of advanced or irreversible joint damage.
Disclaimer: Tips and suggestions mentioned in the article are for general information purpose only and should not be construed as professional medical advice. Always consult your doctor or a dietician before starting any fitness programme or making any changes to your diet.
https://www.timesnownews.com/health/article/what-is-psoriatic-arthritis-symptoms-causes-treatment-tips-to-improve-your-joint-health/543587
Basically, psoriatic arthritis is an autoimmune condition where the body attacks its own tissues. The exact cause of the condition is not clear, however, genetic and environmental factors are known to play a role in its manifestation. PsA can be triggered by stress, smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, and some infections.
Symptoms of psoriatic arthritis
According to Dr Siddharth Shah, Orthopaedic & Joint Replacement Surgeon, SL Raheja Hospital, Mahim - A Fortis Associate, patients usually develop psoriasis before experiencing joint symptoms, adding that symptoms of PsA can vary from person to person. Some of the common symptoms include:Joints related symptoms: PsA causes joint inflammation resulting in pain, swelling, stiffness, and deformity. It commonly affects fingers, wrists, toes, ankles, and knees. Many joints of the body can be affected at the same time. Arthritis can also be symmetrical, i.e. the same joint on both sides of the body can be affected. There may be generalised fatigue. Advanced cases of PsA can result in deformities which are usually seen in the hands and the feet.
Tendon and ligament inflammation: This commonly presents as ankle or heel pain. Sometimes, a combination of tendon and joints inflammation in the hands can result in ‘sausage-shaped’ hand deformity.
Neck and back pain: PsA can affect the joints of the spine which can result in neck and back pain.
Skin and nails: Psoriasis causes dry, red, scaly, and itchy skin rash due to rapid turnover of skin cells. It is commonly seen on the scalp, knees, and elbows, although any part of the body surface can be involved. It can also affect the nails resulting in their discolouration and pitting.
How is psoriatic arthritis diagnosed?
Diagnosis for psoriatic arthritis is usually based on history and physical examination of the joints, skin, and nails. Your doctor may also prescribe certain blood tests and X-rays in order to confirm the diagnosis.How is psoriatic arthritis treated?
You may be prescribed medicines to control inflammation in your joints and prevent further damage. Topical applications may be prescribed for controlling your skin symptoms. Sometimes, injections may be given inside the affected joints to control symptoms.Joint reconstruction surgery may be required in cases of advanced or irreversible joint damage.
Lifestyle measures to improve your joint health
- Regular exercise: Exercising regularly can help maintain bone and joint health and joint flexibility. It is recommended that one exercises for 30 minutes daily or at least three-four times per week. Avoid exercises that result in excessive strain on the joints. Depending on the joints involved, your doctor can advise exercises which are suitable for you.
- Weight management: Being overweight can result in overloading of the joints which causes worsening of symptoms. Maintaining a healthy body weight will help to improve your joint pain and symptoms.
- Smoking cessation: Smoking is a risk factor and a trigger for psoriasis. Cessation of smoking can help control your condition.
- Limit alcohol consumption: Excess alcohol can worsen your symptoms and can also react with some of your anti-psoriatic medications.
- Effective stress management: Stress is an important trigger for psoriasis. Effective coping and stress management strategies coupled with relaxation techniques can help prevent disease ‘flare-ups’
Disclaimer: Tips and suggestions mentioned in the article are for general information purpose only and should not be construed as professional medical advice. Always consult your doctor or a dietician before starting any fitness programme or making any changes to your diet.
https://www.timesnownews.com/health/article/what-is-psoriatic-arthritis-symptoms-causes-treatment-tips-to-improve-your-joint-health/543587
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