There’s no cure for psoriatic arthritis, but there are plenty of therapies to help lessen the discomfort and joint damage.
Stiff, painful jointsRedness, heat, or swelling in the tissues surrounding the jointsRed skin with silvery-white, scaly patchesItching or burning of the skinNails that crumble, become pitted, or lift from the nail beds“Sausage-like” fingers or toesHand deformitiesFoot, neck, or spine painTrouble bending and reduced range of motionInflammation of the eyes, which can cause irritation and vision problemsFatigue
Learn More About Psoriatic Arthritis Symptoms Certain factors that may increase your risk include:
Having Psoriasis Being diagnosed with psoriasis is the greatest risk factor for developing psoriatic arthritis.Family History About 40 percent of people with psoriatic arthritis have a family member with psoriasis or arthritis.An Infection Having a viral or bacterial infection may activate the immune system and trigger psoriatic arthritis in some people.Age Anyone can develop psoriatic arthritis, but it’s more common in those between ages 30 and 50.Obesity Being overweight puts more wear and tear on tendons, which may cause inflammation and trigger psoriatic arthritis.
You may be asked to undergo an X-ray, MRI, ultrasound, or CT scan, so your physician can get a better look at your joints. Symptoms typically worsen over time, but you might experience periods of improvement or remission. Often, these improvements are interrupted by episodes of intensified symptoms, known as “flares.”
Medicines
Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs) NSAIDs, such as ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) and naproxen (Aleve), can help reduce inflammation and pain. While these medicines are available over-the-counter (OTC), your doctor may be able to write you a prescription for a stronger version.Disease-Modifying Anti-Rheumatic Drugs (DMARDs) DMARDs are often recommended if your condition doesn’t improve with NSAIDS. They can help slow the progression of the disease and prevent permanent joint damage. DMARDs include methotrexate (Trexall), sulfasalazine (Azulfidine), and leflunomide (Arava).Janus Kinase (JAK) Inhibitors Tofacitinib (Xeljanz) was the first of this class of drugs approved for PsA.Because they suppress the immune system, taking these drugs may increase the risk of infection, heart complications, and some cancers.TNF-Alpha Inhibitors These drugs help block an inflammatory substance in your body called tumor necrosis factor (TNF). They can lessen pain and improve swollen joints. Common TNF-alpha inhibitors include etanercept (Enbrel), adalimumab (Humira), infliximab (Remicade), certolizumab (Cimzia), and golimumab (Simponi).Immunosuppressants These work by targeting the immune system. Examples are cyclosporine (Gengraf, Neoral, Sandimmune) and azathioprine (Imuran, Azasan).Steroids Steroids can help reduce inflammation quickly. They can be given orally or are sometimes injected right into the problematic joint.Selective Co-Stimulation Modulators: Abatacept (Orencia) is a type of immunomodulator. It works by blocking the activity of T-cells, a type of immune cell.Phosphodiesterase Inhibitors The drug apremilast (Otezla) works inside inflammatory cells to reduce the activity of an enzyme called phosphodiesterase 4 (PDE4) in your body. It helps reduce swelling and pain.Topicals Treatments applied directly to the skin can ease scaly, itchy rashes caused by psoriasis. These therapies come in creams, lotions, shampoos, gels, sprays, or ointments.
Light Therapy
Surgery
In some cases, surgery may be needed to repair or replace joints that are severely damaged by psoriatic arthritis.
Lifestyle Approaches
Exercise. Regular physical activity can make your joints more flexible. Try walking, riding a bike, or swimming.Maintain a healthy weight. Being overweight can put more strain on your joints, which increases pain. Losing a few extra pounds can relieve this stress and give you more energy.Don’t overdo it. Psoriatic arthritis, and sometimes the medicines you take to treat it, can cause extreme fatigue. While being active is important, it’s also vital to rest when you’re tired.
Clinical Trials
Researchers are always testing new therapies to help conditions like psoriatic arthritis. If you’re interested in participating in a clinical trial, visit ClinicalTrials.gov to search for studies in your area. Learn More About Psoriatic Arthritis Treatments
Prevention of Psoriatic Arthritis
The Arthritis Foundation provides credible information and resources for those battling psoriatic arthritis. Their site offers opportunities for advocacy and community outreach. We like that you can get personalized exercise advice based on your condition and fitness level. National Psoriasis Foundation This organization’s site is chock-full of information about psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis. You can request a free electronic psoriatic arthritis kit, which includes a flare tracker to help you manage your disease and pinpoint triggers. Their Navigation Center also offers free and personalized assistance for patients, families, and caregivers. American College of Rheumatology This long-standing professional membership organization provides breaking news about the latest advances in psoriatic arthritis and other rheumatic conditions. The American College of Rheumatology serves more than 8,400 physicians, health professionals, and scientists worldwide. Their Find a Rheumatologist link lets you locate a doctor who specializes in your condition. Spondylitis Association of America The Spondylitis Association of America offers resources for those with spondyloarthritis and related diseases, like psoriatic arthritis. From message boards to support groups, this organization has you covered. American Academy of Dermatology With more than 20,500 members, the American Academy of Dermatology is the largest, most influential dermatology group in the United States. The organization focuses on education and advocacy for a wide range of conditions that affect the skin, including psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis. CreakyJoints CreakyJoints is a digital community for arthritis patients and their caregivers. They offer education, support, advocacy, and patient-centered research resources for people with all types of arthritis. The Skin of Color Society This nonprofit works to increase awareness of dermatological issues as they impact the BIPOC community, working to educate physicians and the general public. A “Find a Doctor” database helps people with skin of color — including African Americans, Asians, Hispanics or Latinos, Native Americans and Pacific Islanders — connect with a clinician who is right for them.
Favorite Psoriatic Arthritis Online Support Networks
TalkPsoriasis TalkPsoriasis is the world’s largest online support community for people affected by psoriasis or psoriatic arthritis. Sponsored by the National Psoriasis Foundation in partnership with Inspire, this resource lets patients connect, exchange information, and make friends. Live Yes! The Live Yes! Arthritis Network, sponsored by the Arthritis Foundation, connects you with local, peer-led support groups. You can also exchange tips, ideas, and experiences with other people in the online forums.
Favorite Annual Psoriatic Arthritis Patient Conference
National Psoriasis Foundation Cure Symposium Each year, the National Psoriasis Foundation hosts a symposium that showcases the latest research. Attending a conference can help you connect with other patients and leading scientists who are studying cutting-edge treatments for your condition.
Favorite Apps for Psoriatic Arthritis
Track + React This app, developed by the Arthritis Foundation, allows you to track your symptoms, input your daily activities, and make charts that you can share with your doctor. Flaredown Flaredown is designed to help you identify what triggers your psoriatic arthritis flare-ups. You can keep track of symptoms, medications, activities, diet, and weather conditions.
