Try These Top-Recommended Tips for Psoriatic Arthritis Pain

From healthcentral.com

Ease the ache with expert-approved tips for managing pain and stiffness 

Psoriatic arthritis (PsA) pain is driven by inflammation that can affect joints and tendons. Inflammation may start where tendons attach to bone, known as enthesitis, leading to discomfort in areas like the shoulders, elbows and knees, says Bret Sohn, M.D., a rheumatologist at Stamford Health in Stamford, CT. As inflammation spreads into the joints, the immune system attacks synovial cells that produce joint-lubricating fluid, causing red, swollen joints and stiffness—often worse after rest or inactivity. The good news? There are effective ways to manage PsA pain, starting with the strategies here.

                                                                                             GettyImages/kieferpix

Heat Therapy: When Warmth Works Best

Heat helps chronic psoriatic arthritis pain by reducing stiffness, improving function, and suppressing inflammatory mediators. Try morning hot showers, apply heating pads before workouts, experiment with warm pool exercises, or explore paraffin wax treatments. However, avoid heat on new, acute pain—it can worsen inflammation during a PsA flare. Also, “any topical use of heat should be discussed with your physician,” says Julius Birnbaum, M.D., an associate professor of rheumatology at University of Pittsburgh Medical Center in Pennsylvania.

Cold Therapy Brings Relief

For acute arthritis pain and swelling—like after exercise, during a flare-up, or in the initial few days after an injury—applying a cool compress can help. “Cold therapy can reduce inflammatory proteins in a joint and provide modest pain relief in these situations,” says Dr. Sohn. Cold also constricts blood vessels, which reduces blood flow to the area to relieve swelling, and it interrupts pain signals as they travel across nerve fibres. Press an ice pack (or a bag of frozen veggies in a pinch) to the sore area for 15 minutes a few times a day.

Topical Relief Options

                                                         GettyImages/simarik

Topical pain relievers may irritate psoriasis plaques, experienced by one in three people with PsA. “Topical treatments aren’t typically recommended for PsA joint pain,” says Dr. Sohn. However, many people with psoriatic arthritis also have osteoarthritis, which can contribute to symptoms. In those cases, topical NSAIDs such as diclofenac or ketoprofen may help, particularly for knee or hand pain. These creams contain the same active ingredients as oral NSAIDs but with lower gastrointestinal, cardiovascular, and kidney risks because they aren’t absorbed through the digestive system.

Gentle Movement Reduces Pain Over Time

When you’re uncomfortable, you might feel inclined to take it easy and avoid strenuous activity. But regular, consistent movement actually helps calm inflammation. And strengthening your muscles eases the burden on your joints. “In general, exercise and physical activity can reduce pain and improve overall function for people with psoriatic arthritis,” says Dr. Sohn. “Studies demonstrate that physical activity correlates inversely with disease activity, meaning that more activity is associated with less pain and inflammation.” Consider low-impact workouts like yoga, tai chi, swimming, cycling, or walking.

Pacing Your Activities Protects Joints

The benefits of movement outweigh the risks, but it’s important to avoid overdoing it. “Excessive mechanical stress, especially at the spots where tendons attach to bone, may trigger or worsen the inflammatory process in people with psoriatic arthritis. There’s no clear threshold where beneficial exercise ends and harmful overloading begins,” says Dr. Sohn. That’s why it’s important to start slow and ramp while listening to your body: Be consistent with your exercise routine, but don’t push through pain. Break workouts or strenuous tasks into shorter intervals with regular breaks and rest days in between.

Easing Morning Stiffness

                                                     GettyImages/GoodLifeStudio

People with psoriatic arthritis often experience “gelling,” a type of stiffness after rest that can last more than 30 minutes, says Birnbaum. Medications and gentle movement help, but small routine changes can also make mornings easier. The Arthritis Foundation suggests using heat overnight or setting an electric blanket to warm up before waking. Keep topical or oral NSAIDs by your bed. When your alarm goes off, take or apply medication, then do gentle stretches in bed to get your joints moving before standing. A brief warm shower can also help loosen stiff muscles and joints.

Supportive Tools and Daily-Life Modifications

Assistive devices can make everyday tasks easier when you have sore joints or lower range of motion. An occupational therapist can help you identify tools that suit your specific needs. “Examples include splints or braces, adaptive footwear, or a TENS (transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation) unit to relieve pain,” says Dr. Sohn. You can also adapt your home environment with modifications like safety grips and grab bars in the bathroom, an electric jar opener or toothbrush, a sock puller, a grabber tool for out-of-reach items, or a voice-to-text function on your computer or phone.

Pain Management During a Flare

During a psoriatic arthritis flare, staying in close contact with your rheumatologist is key. An individualized plan may include a short course of NSAIDs or steroids, or adjustments to your current medications, says Dr. Sohn. Rest is also essential, since added physical stress can prolong recovery. Avoid heat on painful areas, which may worsen swelling; use ice packs or topical NSAIDs instead. Finally, note what was happening before the flare—such as stress, injury, or dietary changes—to help identify triggers and reduce the risk of future flare-ups.

Building Your Personalized Pain Plan

                                                              GettyImages/pocketlight

During a psoriatic arthritis flare, staying in close contact with your rheumatologist is key. An individualized plan may include a short course of NSAIDs or steroids, or adjustments to your current medications, says Dr. Sohn. Rest is also essential, since added physical stress can prolong recovery. Avoid heat on painful areas, which may worsen swelling; use ice packs or topical NSAIDs instead. Finally, note what was happening before the flare—such as stress, injury, or dietary changes—to help identify triggers and reduce the risk of future flare-ups.

https://www.healthcentral.com/slideshow/psa-pain-management-strategies?ap=nl2060&rhid=67ec2b8321f52bf01b0cca01&mui=&lid=141093361&mkt_tok=NTQxLUdLWi0yNDMAAAGfeujDbp0w1RsMzNzh6lxjMhu61Su7IvOjPGvG8FbB2SNxLvoby-Xi6hXEelboMDuNM6QAI9nNrz2gZsnawo4q_8Ll3k8k7RheIPl3gWJYotowe3g

How to Care for Your Skin During a Severe Psoriasis Flare

From healthcentral.com

When psoriasis flares get a little out of hand, take note of these dermatologist-approved steps to soothe pain, calm inflammation, and protect your skin 

A severe psoriasis flare is more than a few thicker-than-usual plaques. Skin may become rapidly and intensely red, swollen, and cracked, with itch that feels constant and overwhelming. “I look for more widespread, thickened, scaly plaques extending beyond prior areas of involvement, along with fissuring, pain, and intensifying itch,” says Meena Singh, M.D., a board-certified dermatologist and medical director of the Skin and Hair Center in Overland Park, KS. Skin warmth or new pustules can also signal trouble. Beyond physical symptoms, severe flares often take an emotional toll, disrupting sleep, work, and daily life.

First Priority: Calm the Inflammation ASAP

                                                         GettyImages/simarik

During a severe flare, the main goal is to calm inflammation as quickly and safely as possible, says Dr. Singh. For flares limited to certain areas, dermatologists may temporarily use stronger topical steroids like clobetasol, often followed by steroid-sparing treatments such as roflumilast. Thick scale may be gently reduced first so medications can work better. For stubborn plaques, steroid injections may help. If symptoms spread quickly or interfere with daily life, doctors may adjust prescribed systemic or biologic treatments (if you take them) to bring inflammation under control.

Soothing Baths Can Help

Short, lukewarm baths can help calm inflamed skin and soften plaques. “I usually recommend lukewarm baths with colloidal oatmeal and occasionally Dead Sea–style salts,” says Dr. Singh. Adding a bath oil can help seal in moisture, per the Mayo Clinic. What doesn’t help: long, hot baths or showers. “Hot water and harsh soaps disrupt the skin barrier and increase inflammation, even if they feel soothing at first,” she explains. Fragrances and essential oils can also worsen flares. Bonus tip: Moisturize within two minutes of bathing to lock in hydration.

Moisturize Like a Derm

                                                      GettyImages/Mariya Borisova

During a severe flare, the simple act of moisturizing becomes a form of treatment. “Proper moisturization alone can be therapeutic,” says Dr. Singh. She recommends thick creams or ointments—especially ceramide-containing formulas—applied at least twice daily. Prescription treatments should go on first, followed by moisturizer layered over the entire area. Timing matters, too: Apply within minutes of bathing while skin is damp. “Heavier creams work better than lotions,” adds Harvard-trained dermatologist Calvin Williams, M.D., who is the director at the Essential Dermatology Group in Bedford, TX, noting that dry skin worsens psoriasis and prolongs inflammation.

Using Bandaging and Occlusion Safely

Occlusion—a.k.a. covering treated skin—can reduce scaling and protect cracked areas when done carefully. Cotton gloves, socks, or soft dressings over petroleum-based ointments can help during severe flares. “Occlusion can be effective [for severe psoriasis], but it should be done under dermatologic guidance,” says Dr. Singh, since it increases absorption of topical steroids. Overuse may raise the risk of side effects like thinning skin. Contact your physician for guidance on bandaging and occlusion; they may even be able to walk you through it virtually if needed.

Scalp Psoriasis Crisis Care

Scalp flares can be especially painful and frustrating, particularly when plaques spread to the hairline or behind the ears. Medicated shampoos help reduce inflammation and scaling, but they should be used gently to avoid irritation. Overnight treatments can soften thick plaques, making them easier to remove in the morning. The biggest thing: “Avoid aggressive picking,” Dr. Singh warns, since it can worsen inflammation and raise the risk of infection. Consistent, careful care can ease pain while protecting both the scalp and hair during severe flares.

Managing Pain, Itch, and Cracking

                                                              GettyImages/vitapix

During severe flares, pain and intense itch often go hand in hand. Cooling gels, cold compresses, or ice packs wrapped in cloth can calm burning skin, notes the American Academy of Dermatology. Antihistamines may help control night-time itch and improve sleep, even though they don’t treat inflammation. The catch-22 is that “dry skin worsens psoriasis,” says Dr. Williams, making frequent moisturizing and humidifier use especially important. When skin cracks, apply thick ointments and protective dressings to reduce pain with movement. To limit damage, keep nails trimmed, wear cotton gloves at night, and avoid scratching whenever possible.

Clothing and Daily-Life Hacks

Your daily habits can either soothe or aggravate inflamed skin. Soft, breathable fabrics like cotton reduce friction, while tight seams and rough materials can worsen plaques. Loose-fitting clothes can also help prevent overheating, which can intensify itch. Fragrance-free detergents and skipping fabric softeners are also key to avoid unnecessary skin irritation. Protective dressings under clothing can shield painful plaques during the day. These small adjustments won’t stop a flare—but they can make work, errands, and social situations far more manageable.

When It’s Time for Medical Help

“Rapidly spreading disease, pain that outweighs itch, pustules, or widespread redness are red flags,” says Dr. Singh. Fever, chills, or bleeding that won’t stop could signal an infection and need immediate attention. Other infection signs include increased warmth, oozing, yellow crusting, or worsening pain despite treatment. Dr. Williams adds that flares not responding to usual treatments should also prompt a medical visit. In rare cases, severe flares can lead to erythroderma, a medical emergency marked by near-total redness of the skin. Bottom line: When symptoms escalate, don’t wait.

Work With Your Dermatologist

                                                       GettyImages/SeventyFour

Planning ahead can reduce stress when severe psoriasis flares hit. Dermatologists often recommend a personalized flare-response plan outlining which treatments to use, where to apply them, and when to call for help. “Psoriasis is not just a skin disease—it’s a systemic inflammatory condition,” says Dr. Singh. Having a ready-to-go flare kit with prescriptions, moisturizers, and dressings can help you feel more in control when flares strike. Meanwhile, tracking triggers like stress, illness, or medication changes can help reduce future flares and improve long-term control.

https://www.healthcentral.com/slideshow/how-to-care-for-your-skin-during-a-severe-psoriasis-flare?ap=nl2060&rhid=67ec2b8321f52bf01b0cca01&mui=&lid=141093361&mkt_tok=NTQxLUdLWi0yNDMAAAGfeujDbkS0o--xcPjfvl1qWUUowlbvZ8MEDFaZkPXPfb9kRNOZaXxED_BDr8h88dmYXPR9cF_-BjhcFkkdvYFaHbKWfR9pYqvJXH9TxJDKQq-I6aM

How Psoriasis Affects Joints

From miragenews.com

Approximately 20 to 30 percent of all people who suffer from psoriasis also develop painful inflammation in their joints over time. If left untreated, this condition known as psoriatic arthritis can lead to permanent damage to bones and joints. Until now, it was a mystery why the disease progressed this way in some patients and not in others. A team of researchers from the Department of Medicine 3 – Rheumatology and Immunology at Uniklinikum Erlangen, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU), have now discovered which cells migrate from the skin of psoriasis patients to the joints and how they trigger inflammation there. These findings pave the way for new approaches for preventing psoriatic arthritis before it takes hold. The team has now published their findings in Nature Immunology.*

Firstly: How inflammatory cells travel from the skin to the joints

Psoriasis triggers the production of special precursor cells from the immune system in the inflamed skin. "These cells can migrate from the skin to the bloodstream and from there to the joints," explains Dr. Simon Rauber, head of the working group at Department of Medicine 3. "It is interesting that the mere migration of immune cells into the joint is not sufficient to trigger inflammation there."

Secondly: How inflammatory cells infiltrate the joint

It is crucial to examine the processes that take place in the joint. Here, the migratory immune cells encounter connective tissue cells known as fibroblasts that are usually less than pleased to encounter these new arrivals. "The protective function of these connective tissue cells is usually considerably reduced in people who develop psoriatic arthritis," says Prof. Dr. Andreas Ramming, team leader and deputy head of department at Department of Medicine 3. "As a result, the inflammatory cells that enter the joint cannot be brought into check, and go on to trigger an inflammatory reaction in the joint." The results provide an explanation for why some psoriasis patients go on to develop joint disease as well.

Early detection and prevention before the disease affects the joints

As the migratory immune cells can already be detected in the blood before triggering inflammation in the joints, this could act as an early warning signal in future, allowing patients at risk to be identified in time. In future, treatment strategies could be aimed specifically at intercepting these inflammatory cells and preventing them from triggering inflammation in the joints.

The research is being funded by the German Research Foundation (DFG) within the framework of the CRC/TRR 369 – "DIONE: Degeneration of bone due to inflammation", by the European Research Council (ERC) as part of the project "Barrier Break", and by the Interdisciplinary Center for Clinical Research in Erlangen (IZKF) as part of the project "Tissue imprinting of skin-derived immune cells in psoriatic arthritis"

https://www.miragenews.com/how-psoriasis-affects-joints-1601960/

How Does Diet Affect Your Psoriasis?

From everydayhealth.com

If you have psoriasis, you may have wondered whether certain foods are making your symptoms worse — or whether changing your diet can help.

The answer isn’t straightforward: While psoriasis isn’t caused by what you eat, your diet may still play a role in how the condition — and your symptoms — show up day to day.

“Your diet impacts your health, including your psoriasis. Because the foods we eat can help our immune system function better, or they can trigger more inflammation, it's important to make good choices,” says Steven Daveluy, MD, a professor and the program director in the dermatology department at Wayne State University’s School of Medicine in Dearborn, Michigan. Dr. Daveluy specializes in treating patients with skin diseases, such as psoriasis and eczema. 

Psoriasis is an autoimmune disease that causes inflammation in your skin. Plaque psoriasis, the most common type, looks like thick, scaly patches called plaques. Some foods can “feed the fire of psoriasis,” while anti-inflammatory ones will do the opposite, Daveluy says.

Research on diet and psoriasis is still limited; however, it suggests people with psoriasis report fewer flares when they follow an anti-inflammatory eating pattern, such as the Mediterranean diet, while exercise and losing excess weight have also been effective in combating symptom severity.

That said, dietary triggers are highly individual. What worsens symptoms for one person may have no effect on another. That’s why it’s crucial to work with your dermatologist and wider healthcare team to figure out a personalized approach.

                                                                                                                                 Adobe Stock

The Mediterranean Diet for Psoriasis

The Mediterranean diet has long been hailed as helpful in the management of many chronic diseases, psoriasis included. It’s an eating pattern that emphasizes:

• Fruits and vegetables
• Whole grains like whole-wheat bread and brown rice
• Healthy fats from olive oil and nuts
• Fish rich in omega-3 fatty acids
• Poultry and fish over red meat, which is limited

A key selling point for the Mediterranean diet is that it limits ingredients that typically cause inflammation in the body like red meat, fried foods, sugary drinks and ultra-processed snacks. At the same time, it encourages fresh produce, salmon, tuna, chicken and turkey, beans and legumes — all of which are anti-inflammatory and aid in lessening psoriasis symptoms, says Daveluy.

“There are several studies that show if psoriasis patients stick to an anti-inflammatory diet, such as the Mediterranean-style diet or intermittent fasting, their psoriasis is less severe and medications actually work better,” he says.

In one study, Spanish researchers conducting a randomized clinical trial with 38 psoriasis patients found that those who followed a Mediterranean diet for 16 weeks saw a 75 percent reduction in psoriasis severity compared with no change in their counterparts who were advised to follow a low-fat diet.

The diet is high in antioxidants, omega-3 fatty acids, and fibre — a combination that counters oxidative stress and fights inflammation in the body by suppressing pro-inflammatory pathways, says Chris Adigun, MD, a board-certified dermatologist in private practice in Chapel Hill, North Carolina.

Because psoriasis is often linked with other health conditions like heart disease, type 2 diabetes, and obesity, the Mediterranean diet can be helpful by targeting the underlying inflammation that connects both skin symptoms and these comorbidities, she says.

Vegetarian Diets for Psoriasis

While there’s currently little direct research on vegetarian diets and psoriasis, like the Mediterranean diet it’s been tied to less-severe psoriasis symptoms.

In a study of adults with psoriasis, researchers found that people who followed a predominantly plant-based diet — emphasizing fruits, vegetables, legumes, and nuts — tended to report less-severe psoriasis symptoms, while poorer-quality diets and higher intakes of red and processed meat were linked to greater symptom severity.

An earlier review looked at studies on the effects of a plant-based diet on a range of inflammatory skin diseases. It noted that a vegetarian diet is low in saturated and trans fat and high in antioxidants and omega-3s, which reduce inflammation and promote weight loss. Simply adding vegetables into their daily diet led to a “favourable” skin response in 43 percent of people with psoriasis.

Think carefully about constructing a healthy vegetarian diet if you decide to take this route, says Caylee Clay, RDN, a registered dietitian-nutritionist in Brooklyn, New York, who has psoriasis and specializes in helping clients manage autoimmune diseases.

Not all vegetarian diets are inherently anti-inflammatory. “Vegetarian” foods can include fruits and vegetables or french fries and highly processed meat substitutes, Clay notes. But if it’s planned thoughtfully — packed with Mediterranean diet and anti-inflammatory diet staples — you should reap the same benefits, including supporting the gut microbiome via eating a range of plants.

“A clear theme is emerging: eating plenty of plants is likely to improve our health. This is true whether the goal is preventing cancer or reducing psoriasis,” Clay says.

Gluten-Free Diets and Psoriasis

People with psoriasis are twice as likely to have celiac disease as people without the skin condition.

In diagnosed cases of celiac disease, a gluten-free diet is medically necessary and may improve both gastrointestinal and skin symptoms, Dr. Adigun says. But you shouldn’t adopt a gluten-free diet if you don’t have celiac disease as there’s no strong evidence that eliminating gluten benefits people with psoriasis who do not have celiac disease or a non-celiac gluten sensitivity.

You may want to talk to your doctor about gluten testing if you have:

• Digestive symptoms such as chronic bloating, diarrhoea, or abdominal pain
• Iron-deficiency or unexplained nutrient deficiencies
• A personal or family history of celiac disease

But whether you have a gluten-sensitivity or not, it’s important to notice if eating certain foods is regularly followed by worsening symptoms. “For me, my psoriasis and joint pain significantly increase if I consume wheat products regularly,” Clay says. If this applies to you, keep a food journal and talk to your doctor or registered dietitian about ways to edit your daily diet.

Weight Loss and Psoriasis

If you have psoriasis and are overweight, losing weight can help to:

• Manage psoriasis symptoms
• Reduce flares
• Decrease the need for psoriasis medications
• Improve psoriasis treatment outcomes

Fat — or adipose tissue — releases pro-inflammatory cytokines, which are communication signals in the body that trigger inflammation. Cytokines can worsen psoriasis and even block medications that treat psoriasis, Daveluy says.

“This is why studies show that obesity is associated with more severe psoriasis and a higher chance that medications won't work as well to treat it. If a patient is overweight or obese, losing 5 to 10 percent of your body weight often produces benefits,” he says.

Focusing on healthy eating, regular exercise, and getting enough sleep can help you with your weight loss goals. 

These habits will also create a sustainable lifestyle, supporting psoriasis management that complements any medication you're taking, Adigun says. “Psoriasis is a complicated disease, and treatment outcomes are often best with a multifaceted approach.”

The Takeaway

• Your diet doesn’t cause psoriasis, but it can influence how the condition appears day to day and may affect the severity of symptoms.
• The Mediterranean diet may help, as it’s rich in anti-inflammatory foods like fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean protein sources, and healthy fats that support your immune system while limiting foods that promote inflammation, such as ultra-processed snacks, red meat, sugary drinks, and refined carbohydrates.
• Weight loss can improve psoriasis severity, especially for those who are overweight or obese. A 5 to 10 percent loss of body weight may reduce flares, enhance medication effectiveness, and support long-term overall health, including risk of comorbidities like cardiovascular disease and type 2 diabetes.

https://www.everydayhealth.com/skin-conditions/how-diet-affects-your-psoriasis/

Winter Can Worsen Eczema, Psoriasis And Dry Skin: Expert Tips To Prevent Flare-Ups

From news18.com

Cold weather and low humidity can trigger eczema, psoriasis, and dry skin. A dermatologist shares essential winter skincare tips to prevent flare-ups

Winter dryness can trigger skin flare-ups. Gentle care and regular moisturising make all the difference.

Did you know that cold weather, low humidity, and indoor heating can severely dry out the skin, triggering eczema flare-ups, worsening psoriasis, and increasing overall dryness during winter? Seasonal changes can have a significant impact on skin health, making it essential to take preventive measures. Here, an expert shares important tips to help prevent flare-ups during winter and protect your skin. Staying in regular touch with a dermatologist can also help you make informed decisions about your skin health.

Dr Shareefa Chause, Dermatologist, Mumbai, shares what you need to know.

Winter can quickly turn from a pleasant season into a challenging one for people with sensitive skin conditions. Skin problems are particularly common during colder months and can significantly affect quality of life. Winter weather can be harsh on skin health, especially for individuals diagnosed with eczema, psoriasis, and chronic dry skin.

During winter, the air holds less moisture, which leads to increased water loss from the skin. This strips away natural oils, weakens the skin barrier, and makes the skin more sensitive and inflamed. As a result, many people experience symptoms such as itching, redness, scaling, and frequent flare-ups. Reduced sun exposure during winter can also worsen psoriasis, as sunlight helps slow excessive skin cell growth. Those with eczema and psoriasis may experience severe dryness, itching, cracked skin, flaking, redness, and painful fissures during this time.

It is always better to be proactive and follow expert-recommended guidelines to prevent complications.

Adhere to These Tips

Choose moisturisers and emollients as advised by your dermatologist to lock in moisture, restore the skin barrier, and maintain healthy skin.

Creams and ointments are preferred over lotions, as they provide deeper and longer-lasting hydration.

Use medicated creams prescribed by your doctor strictly as directed to control inflammation and prevent flare-ups. Avoid using any product without medical advice.

Avoid hot water showers, as they can further dry out the skin.

Use gentle, fragrance-free cleansers to minimise irritation.

Wear soft, breathable fabrics like cotton and avoid synthetic materials that can irritate sensitive skin.

Never ignore persistent skin symptoms taking skin health lightly is a strict no-no.

Regular check-ups and follow-ups with a dermatologist are especially important during winter for individuals prone to skin conditions. Staying vigilant and adopting the right skincare habits can go a long way in keeping winter-related skin problems under control.

Stay alert, stay safe, and take care of your skin this winter.

https://www.news18.com/lifestyle/health-and-fitness/winter-can-worsen-eczema-psoriasis-and-dry-skin-expert-tips-to-prevent-flare-ups-9823621.html