Arthritis can be a debilitating disease that affects millions of people worldwide. One form of it is psoriatic arthritis. Psoriatic arthritis is a type of inflammatory arthritis that affects people who have psoriasis. While the exact cause of psoriatic arthritis is not known, there are several factors that contribute to its development.
In this blog post, we will explore the causes and symptoms of psoriatic arthritis and what you can do to manage it. We will also discuss ways in which this condition can be diagnosed and treated. So read on to learn more about living with this condition and how lifestyle modifications can help manage its symptoms.
Understanding Psoriatic Arthritis
What is Psoriatic Arthritis?
Psoriatic arthritis, a type of inflammatory arthritis, shares some symptoms with other forms of arthritis, like rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis. However, there are certain distinguishing factors. Psoriatic arthritis is often accompanied by skin changes, such as plaques and patches, which are not seen in other types of arthritis. Unlike its counterparts, psoriatic arthritis can affect any joint in the body.
Symptoms of Psoriatic Arthritis
Symptoms of psoriatic arthritis include joint pain, redness, and stiffness, especially in the fingers, toes, and lower back. Swollen and tender joints that may feel warm to the touch are also common. Individuals with psoriatic arthritis often experience red, scaly patches of skin known as psoriasis. Fatigue, fever, and loss of appetite can also accompany these symptoms.
Fatigue, nail changes, and eye inflammation are also common skin symptoms. It’s worth noting that those with psoriatic arthritis often have psoriasis skin lesions.
Causes of Psoriatic Arthritis
Psoriatic arthritis can be caused by a combination of genetic, immune system dysfunction, environmental, and lifestyle factors. There is a strong genetic link to psoriatic arthritis, with certain gene variations increasing the risk. The immune system plays a role as it mistakenly attacks healthy joints, leading to inflammation and pain.
Environmental triggers, such as infections or trauma, can activate the condition in individuals with a genetic predisposition. Lifestyle factors like smoking, obesity, and poor diet also contribute to the development of psoriatic arthritis.
Risk Factors for Psoriatic Arthritis
Those at a higher risk for psoriatic arthritis include individuals with psoriasis and other skin problems, as the two conditions are closely linked. Having a family history of psoriatic arthritis also increases the likelihood of developing the condition.
Psoriatic arthritis commonly affects those between the ages of 30 and 50, with women being more susceptible. Other risk factors include obesity and smoking. It is important to address these risk factors through lifestyle changes like exercise and healthy eating habits.
How is Psoriatic Arthritis Diagnosed?
Psoriatic arthritis is diagnosed through a combination of physical examinations, medical history evaluations, and imaging tests. Rheumatologists may perform blood tests to check for inflammation and specific antibodies.
X-rays, MRI scans, or ultrasounds can help detect joint damage associated with psoriatic arthritis. Consulting a rheumatologist or a GP is crucial for an accurate diagnosis and personalised treatment plan.
Treatment Options for Psoriatic Arthritis
Medications
When it comes to managing psoriatic arthritis, medications play a crucial role in providing relief from pain and inflammation. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen and naproxen are commonly prescribed to alleviate pain. Whereas disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drugs (DMARDs) like methotrexate help slow down disease progression and prevent joint damage.
Biologic drugs, like TNF inhibitors, target specific parts of the immune system to reduce inflammation. It is essential to work closely with a rheumatologist to determine the most suitable medication regimen for individual needs. With the right medications, individuals can experience improved quality of life and better manage their symptoms.
Physiotherapy and Exercise
Physiotherapy, yoga, meditation, and exercise play a crucial role in managing psoriatic arthritis. They can help reduce pain, swelling, and inflammation, improve joint flexibility and range of motion, and enhance overall function.
With the guidance of a physiotherapist, individuals can engage in tailored exercises such as stretching, tai chi, low-impact aerobics, and strength training to suit their specific needs and abilities.
Regular physical activity and physiotherapy not only benefit the physical aspects but also contribute to mental well-being. It is advisable to consult with a health care professional to develop an individualised exercise and physiotherapy plan that best suits your needs.
One Body LDN offers physiotherapy in London One Body LDN, a leading physiotherapy clinic in London, specializes in providing comprehensive care for individuals with psoriatic arthritis. Their team of experienced physiotherapists understands the unique challenges faced by those with this condition and can tailor their treatment plans to suit individual needs.
At One Body LDN, they offer a range of physiotherapy services aimed at managing psoriatic arthritis symptoms. These may include manual therapy techniques to help alleviate pain and restore joint mobility, as well as therapeutic exercises to improve flexibility, strengthen the affected joints, and improve your overall health.
Surgical Interventions
In cases where other treatments have proven ineffective, steroids, corticosteroids, and surgical interventions may be considered for psoriatic arthritis. Joint replacement surgery can alleviate pain and enhance joint function. Synovectomy surgery targets inflamed joint lining to reduce both swelling and discomfort.
Additionally, tendon repair surgery can help restore damaged tendons and improve overall joint movement. However, it’s important to note that surgery is typically reserved for severe instances of psoriatic arthritis.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is psoriatic arthritis and how does it differ from other forms of arthritis?
Psoriatic arthritis is an inflammatory arthritis that affects people with psoriasis. Unlike other forms of arthritis, it causes joint and tissue inflammation. It can also affect the spine and cause eye problems, distinguishing it from other types of arthritis. Treatment involves medication, physiotherapy, and lifestyle changes.
What are some common symptoms of psoriatic arthritis?
Common symptoms of psoriatic arthritis include joint pain, stiffness, swelling, tenderness, and fatigue. Some individuals may also experience skin changes such as rashes or scaly patches. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial for managing symptoms and preventing long-term joint damage.
Where can I find physiotherapy near me?
To find physiotherapy near you, start by searching online for clinics in your area. You can also ask your doctor or healthcare provider for recommendations. Check with your insurance company to see if they cover physiotherapy and which clinics are in-network. Reading reviews and ratings can help you make an informed decision.
Where can I find sports massage near me?
To find sports massage services near you, start by using search engines like Google or Bing. Online directories such as Yelp or Yellow Pages can also help you locate sports massage businesses in your area. Additionally, consider asking for recommendations from friends, family, or healthcare professionals. One Body LDN offers sports massage in London and has received positive reviews from athletes and fitness enthusiasts. Their skilled therapists specialize in sports-related injuries and provide customized treatment plans tailored to your specific needs.
Conclusion
In conclusion, understanding psoriatic arthritis is crucial to effectively managing the condition and improving quality of life. By differentiating psoriatic arthritis from other types of arthritis, recognizing common symptoms, and identifying the causes and risk factors, individuals can seek appropriate diagnosis and treatment.
Medications, physiotherapy, exercise, and surgical interventions are all viable options for managing psoriatic arthritis symptoms. Additionally, making lifestyle modifications such as maintaining a healthy weight, following an anti-inflammatory diet, and managing stress can greatly improve overall well-being. I
With the right treatment plan and support, individuals can lead fulfilling and active lives despite the challenges posed by psoriatic arthritis.
If you are searching “private physios near me” / “Sports massage near me” / “Deep tissue massage near me” / “pain treatment near me”, have private health insurance physiotherapy cover and are looking for the best private healthcare in London – One Body LDN is your answer.
We are approved by ALL major private health insurance physiotherapy companies:
Axa PPP | Axa PPP International | Bupa Physiotherapy | Bupa International | Vitality (formerly Pru Health) | Vitality Health International | Nuffield Health | Aviva | Cigna | Cigna International | WPA | Aetna | Aetna International | Allianz | Allianz Worldwide Care | Allianz International | Axa Private Health Insurance | Healix | Healix Global | Health Shield | Simplyhealth | Paycare | BHSF | The PHC | Saga | The Exeter | Freedom Healthcare | Axa Corporate Health Insurance
Our approved physiotherapists are ready to take care of you!
Contact us today to learn more!
