What Is Psoriatic Arthritis?
Psoriatic arthritis relief and treatment can help reduce joint pain, improve mobility and slow the progression of this chronic inflammatory condition.
Psoriatic arthritis is an autoimmune disease that affects some people with psoriasis, a skin condition characterized by red, scaly patches. In addition to causing joint inflammation, psoriatic arthritis may also affect the tendons, ligaments and spine.
Symptoms can range from mild to severe and often develop gradually, although some people experience a sudden onset. Early diagnosis and ongoing treatment are important for protecting joint function and maintaining a healthy, active lifestyle.
What Are Common Symptoms of Psoriatic Arthritis?
Psoriatic arthritis affects everyone differently, and symptoms may come and go during periods of increased disease activity known as flare-ups.
Common symptoms include:
- Joint pain, stiffness and swelling
- Morning stiffness that improves with movement
- Swollen fingers or toes
- Fatigue
- Reduced range of motion
- Pain where tendons and ligaments attach to bone
- Nail changes such as pitting or separation from the nail bed
- Red, scaly skin patches associated with psoriasis
Some individuals experience skin symptoms before joint pain, while others develop arthritis first.
How Is Psoriatic Arthritis Diagnosed?
Diagnosing psoriatic arthritis begins with a review of your symptoms, medical history and family history of psoriasis or autoimmune disease. Your healthcare provider will perform a physical examination to evaluate your joints, skin and nails for signs of inflammation.
Blood tests may be ordered to help rule out other forms of arthritis, such as rheumatoid arthritis. Imaging studies including X-rays, ultrasound or MRI can identify joint damage or inflammation.
Because symptoms often overlap with other conditions, early evaluation is essential for reaching an accurate diagnosis and beginning treatment promptly.
How Is This Condition Treated?
The goal of psoriatic arthritis relief and treatment is to reduce inflammation, relieve pain, preserve joint function and prevent long-term damage. Treatment plans are tailored to each patient’s symptoms and the severity of the disease.
Treatment may include anti-inflammatory medications, disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs), biologic therapies and medications that target the immune system. Physical therapy, regular exercise, weight management and healthy lifestyle habits can also help improve mobility and reduce stress on affected joints.
Without proper treatment, psoriatic arthritis can lead to permanent joint damage, chronic pain and decreased mobility. Ongoing monitoring allows treatment plans to be adjusted as symptoms change over time and helps reduce the risk of complications.
Where Can I Get the Best Psoriatic Arthritis Care in Marshfield, MA?
If you are experiencing persistent joint pain, swelling or stiffness, especially if you also have psoriasis, discussing psoriatic arthritis relief and treatment with an experienced healthcare provider is an important first step. Early diagnosis and personalized care can help control symptoms and protect your joints.
The team at Pembroke Primary Care provides comprehensive evaluations, coordinates appropriate diagnostic testing and works closely with rheumatology specialists when advanced care is needed.
If you are looking for compassionate psoriatic arthritis care in Marshfield, MA, call Pembroke Primary Care at 781-826-3838 to schedule an appointment and begin your personalized treatment plan.
