Psoriasis and joint pain

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What is psoriatic arthritis?

Like psoriasis, psoriatic arthritis is a chronic inflammatory disease in which the immune system as well as genetic and environmental factors are believed to play an important role in the development of the disease. Symptoms are typically a combination of skin symptoms and joint inflammation. People with psoriatic arthritis may experience nail lesions, inflammation and swelling in and around the joints commonly affecting the hands, feet, wrists, ankles, knees, and lower back.

Approximately 30-40% of people with psoriasis symptoms may actually have or may develop psoriatic arthritis, although it often goes undiagnosed, especially if the symptoms are mild. Psoriatic arthritis usually develops between the ages of 30-50; however, it can appear at any age and affects men and women almost equally.

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Symptoms and onset of psoriatic arthritis

In most cases, the psoriasis symptoms develop first. It is not at all unusual for as many as 10 years to pass before joint symptoms set in, however this condition doesn't follow a standard course. In fact, approximately 15% of patients develop symptoms of psoriatic arthritis before their psoriasis is diagnosed. Because each case of psoriatic arthritis is unique, be sure to consult a specialist for an accurate diagnosis.

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Warning signs of psoriatic arthritis

If you have psoriatic skin symptoms, pay special attention to any of the following symptoms, which generally appear as a result of psoriatic arthritis:

• Inflamed, swollen, and tender joints, particularly the "hinge" joints of the hands and feet
• Fingers and toes that are swollen and appear "sausage-like"
• Inflammation in the tendons, the tissue that connects muscles to bones
• Stiffness and fatigue
• Decreased range of motion
• Nail pitting, crumbling, or white spots under the nails

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Causes of psoriatic arthritis

Although the exact cause of psoriatic arthritis has not been determined, the immune system, as well as environmental and genetic factors, appears to play a role in the development of the disease.

In fact, a close look at the role of the immune system reveals that there are a number of similarities between what is happening in psoriatic skin and what is happening in a psoriatic joint. In both, the immune system is mistakenly activated, resulting in an abnormally rapid skin cell cycle and/or inflammation in the joints and the surrounding tissues.

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Prompt treatment can make a difference

Early diagnosis and treatment is recommended to help prevent further joint damage that can occur with psoriatic arthritis. The goals of early treatment are to relieve pain, reduce swelling, help keep joints functioning properly, and to slow or prevent further damage to the tissues or joints. So be sure to share any changes in your symptoms with your doctor. There are several prescription and non-prescription drug options available to treat your psoriatic arthritis. Talk with your doctor to find a treatment that may be right for you.