Symptoms of Psoriatic Arthritis

Symptoms of PsA can vary from mild to severe and often resemble those of rheumatoid arthritis. Common signs include:

• Joint pain, swelling, and stiffness (commonly in fingers, toes, knees, or spine)
• Morning stiffness that improves with activity
• Swelling of entire fingers or toes (dactylitis – "sausage digits")
• Pain and tenderness at tendons or ligaments (enthesitis)
• Nail changes such as pitting, discoloration, or separation from nail bed
• Fatigue and reduced range of motion

Causes & Risk Factors

While the exact cause of Psoriatic Arthritis remains unclear, it is primarily linked to an overactive immune system and genetic predisposition. Contributing factors include:

• Genetics – Family history of psoriasis or autoimmune diseases increases risk.
• Immune dysfunction – Abnormal immune response causes inflammation in joints and skin.
• Psoriasis – Most people develop PsA after psoriasis, though it can sometimes appear first.
• Infections or injury – Can trigger immune activation in susceptible individuals.
• Obesity and smoking – Both factors increase the likelihood and severity of PsA.

Diagnosis of Psoriatic Arthritis

Diagnosing PsA requires a comprehensive evaluation by a rheumatologist. Since there is no single test, a combination of clinical and imaging assessments are used, including:

• Physical examination for joint and skin involvement
• Blood tests (to rule out rheumatoid factor and measure inflammation markers)
• X-rays, MRI, or Ultrasound to detect joint inflammation and damage

Early diagnosis helps prevent irreversible joint destruction and improves treatment outcomes.

Treatment & Management of Psoriatic Arthritis

The goal of treatment is to control inflammation, relieve symptoms, and prevent joint damage. The management plan is personalized based on disease severity and includes:

• Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) for pain relief
• Disease-Modifying Anti-Rheumatic Drugs (DMARDs) like Methotrexate
• Biologic and targeted synthetic agents (TNF, IL-17, IL-23 inhibitors)
• Corticosteroid injections to reduce inflammation
• Physical therapy to improve mobility and strength
• Skin treatments for psoriasis including topical or phototherapy

With early and consistent treatment, Psoriatic Arthritis can be effectively controlled, minimizing flare-ups and joint damage.

Self-Care & Lifestyle Tips

In addition to medical treatment, lifestyle modifications play a major role in managing PsA:

• Maintain a healthy weight to reduce joint strain
• Follow a balanced, anti-inflammatory diet rich in omega-3 fatty acids
• Exercise regularly to keep joints flexible and strong
• Avoid smoking and limit alcohol intake
• Manage stress through relaxation and mindfulness techniques
• Follow up regularly with your rheumatologist for monitoring

Why Choose Dr. Aditi Patankar Deshpande for Psoriatic Arthritis Care?

Dr. Aditi Patankar Deshpande, Consultant Physician & Rheumatologist, provides expert evaluation and holistic management for Psoriatic Arthritis. With a patient-centered approach and expertise in autoimmune and joint diseases, she ensures accurate diagnosis, advanced biologic therapy, and ongoing support to help patients regain comfort and joint function.