Psoriatic Arthritis

Psoriatic arthritis is a type of autoimmune inflammatory arthritis that affects individuals with psoriasis, an autoimmune disease that causes red, scaly patches on the skin. With inflammatory arthritis, the immune system becomes overactive resulting in the destruction of healthy joint tissue as well as other organs and tissues in the body. The inflammation not only causes skin discomfort but also pain and swelling in the joints. Individuals with psoriasis are at higher risk of developing psoriatic arthritis as are people with a known family history of the condition.

Symptoms of Psoriatic Arthritis

Like other types of autoimmune inflammatory arthritis such as rheumatoid arthritis, symptoms can worsen over time with periods of remission (decreased inflammation of the skin and joints), and periods of symptom flare-ups. Symptoms include:

• Scaly, red patches particularly on the skin of the elbows, knees, and back
• Joint pain, tenderness, stiffness
• Swelling especially in the fingers, toes, and lower back
• Nail changes
• Eye pain and redness

Diagnosis and Treatment of Psoriatic Arthritis

Recognizing the symptoms and seeking early treatment from a rheumatologist, in conjunction with the specialists at Monarch Pain Management, can help you manage symptoms, slow the progression of psoriatic arthritis, and help save joints and other tissues from permanent damage.

At Monarch Pain Management, our specialists can assist in the diagnosis of inflammatory arthritis and work with your rheumatologist to develop an effective treatment plan to manage your pain and keep you active.

Treatment

Treatments for psoriatic arthritis focus on limiting inflammation in the body. Common therapies include:

• Medication
  Depending on the severity of your pain and swelling, you may be prescribed anti-inflammatory medications (NSAIDS) such as Advil, Motrin, and Aleve that relieve pain and reduce inflammation. Other medications we may prescribe are known as DMARDs, which can slow the progression of autoimmune inflammatory arthritis and minimize joint and tissue damage.

• Steroids
  Corticosteroids such as prednisone reduce inflammation and pain quickly. However, long-term use of steroid medications is not recommended and is typically prescribed for flare-ups to provide more immediate relief from joint pain and swelling.

Get Lasting Pain Relief From Psoriatic Arthritis

Dr. Aaron Przybysz is a double-board certified pain management physician experienced in helping patients manage chronic pain conditions such as psoriatic arthritis so that they can live an active and full life.

Schedule your appointment today and start living life fully again. Call 714-793-9260 or Connect with us to book an appointment and reclaim your life with less pain.