Psoriatic Arthritis

Psoriatic arthritis is a condition that affects up to 41% of people with a skin condition called psoriasis. At Rheumatology East, with locations in Germantown and Jackson, Tennessee, board-certified rheumatologist Bradley Postlethwaite, MD, offers treatment for this form of arthritis to ease discomfort, lessen inflammation, and avoid complications. Schedule an evaluation by phone or request one online today to obtain long-lasting relief. 

What is psoriatic arthritis?

Psoriatic arthritis affects some people with psoriasis, a skin disease characterized by silvery scales or red skin patches. It’s a type of arthritis that can cause joint pain, swelling, and stiffness, affecting any part of your body. While there’s no cure, treatment helps you manage debilitating symptoms and reduce the risk of disabling joint damage. 

Dr. Postlethwaite is highly trained in the management of psoriatic arthritis and other common forms of arthritis. 

Which symptoms can psoriatic arthritis cause?

The symptoms of psoriatic arthritis may include:

• Painful joints
• Joint swelling
• Stiffness
• Redness
• Tenderness 
• Warmth
• Swelling in your toes or fingers
• Lower back pain
• Foot pain
• Eye pain, redness, or blurry vision
• Pitted or crumbling nails that may separate from the nail bed
• Psoriasis rash
• Fatigue

These symptoms tend to worsen over time when not addressed. They may affect joints on both sides or just one side of the body and typically resemble rheumatoid arthritis.

Complications could include high blood pressure, obesity, diabetes, high cholesterol, metabolic syndrome, or heart disease. You might also experience muscle weakness, anemia, depression, or joint disfigurement. 

What are the risk factors for psoriatic arthritis?

Psoriatic arthritis risk factors include:

• Genetic mutations
• Family history of psoriatic arthritis
• Physical trauma
• Infections 
• Psoriasis

Psoriatic arthritis is often diagnosed between ages 30 and 50. 

How is psoriatic arthritis diagnosed?

Diagnosing psoriatic arthritis requires a physical exam and a discussion of your lifestyle, medical history, medications, and symptoms. You might undergo blood testing, joint fluid testing, X-rays, an MRI, an ultrasound, CT scanning, or other imaging procedures.

How is psoriatic arthritis treated?

Your psoriatic arthritis treatment plan may consist of one or more of the following:

• Over-the-counter medicines
• Prescription medications
• Corticosteroid injections 
• Cold or heat therapy 
• Occupational therapy
• Physical therapy
• Surgery

If psoriatic arthritis has severely damaged your joints, you may be a candidate for surgery. If so, Dr. Postlethwaite offers referrals. Reducing the risk of psoriatic arthritis means avoiding tobacco products, eating nutritious foods, and exercising regularly.

The earlier you seek treatment for arthritis, the lower your chance of developing complications. See Dr. Postlethwaite at the first sign of a problem. 

Schedule a psoriatic arthritis evaluation at Rheumatology East by calling the office or requesting an appointment online today.