Psoriatic Arthritis is a condition that falls in line with the many different types of arthritis. It is often seen in individuals who have psoriasis but it can occur in any person, regardless of other conditions they may be experiencing. In most cases, a person will be diagnosed with psoriasis before they are diagnosed with Psoriatic Arthritis but it is not out of the question for the joint pain to show up before the visible manifestations of psoriasis appear. There is not a cure for this condition but there may be some options to help limit the pain and damage associated with it.

This type of arthritis is chronic and progressive but there may be some relief of the symptoms from time to time. Those symptoms may diminish or perhaps even disappear when they go into remission but often, they will continue to show up from time to time and get worse. The joint pain, either on one side or both sides of the body can be significant and is similar to the symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis. The joints will often become swollen, painful and warm to the touch.

There may be a number of other symptoms that can go along with the joint pain, such as swollen toes and fingers. Some people also develop deformities and swelling in their feet or hands before the joint symptoms appear. Lower back pain is sometimes seen in individuals that have this condition, as is foot pain, especially in the Achilles tendon or on the bottom of your foot. If you are suffering from psoriasis, your doctor should be made aware of any joint pain you have as well. If this condition is left untreated, it can cause damage to the joints.

Although there is a lot that needs to be learned about Psoriatic Arthritis, it is classified as an autoimmune disorder. It tends to be associated with a misfiring of the immune system when it starts to attack the healthy cells and tissue in the body. As a result of that issue, inflammation in the joints and an increased production of the skin cells may occur. There may, at times, be something that triggers the problem to begin, including infections or other types of physical trauma. That is more likely to occur if you have a family history of the problem.

Although there isn't a cure for this condition, there may be some treatment options that will help you to be more comfortable. Some different types of medication can help to reduce your symptoms and prevent joint damage in some cases. Dr. Lavery can help you to get what you need for this condition and to improve your quality of life.

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