Psoriatic Arthritis

What is psoriatic arthritis?

Psoriatic arthritis is a type of inflammatory arthritis that occurs in people with psoriasis. Psoriasis is a chronic skin condition that triggers an overproduction of skin cells, creating scaly, inflamed patches of skin.

The overproduction of skin cells in people with psoriasis occurs because of a problem with the immune system. With psoriatic arthritis, the immune system attacks the joint’s connective tissue, causing inflammation and pain. 

You can also have psoriatic arthritis without having the skin flare-ups associated with psoriasis. 

What are the symptoms of psoriatic arthritis?

Psoriatic arthritis is a chronic condition that worsens over time. Arthritis may affect the joints on one or both sides of the body. The chronic inflammatory condition most often affects the joints in the hands and feet, causing toe and finger swelling, as well as foot pain.

Psoriatic arthritis also affects the joints in your spine, causing inflammation known as spondylitis. The inflammation may then lead to a back condition called ankylosing spondylitis — when the small bones in your spine fuse together. 

What happens during a psoriatic arthritis evaluation?

When you come in to see the experts at Rheumatology Medical Center for the management of your psoriatic arthritis, you can expect a comprehensive evaluation. 

Dr. Narula and the team take a patient-centered approach to care and work closely with you and your other health providers to ensure you get the best possible treatments to alleviate your joint pain and improve your quality of life.  

During your exam, Dr. Narula reviews your symptoms, medical history, and the types of medications you take. She performs a physical exam and runs diagnostic tests to confirm or rule out psoriatic arthritis and the severity of your joint damage. 

How is psoriatic arthritis treated?

Dr. Narula and the Rheumatology Medical Center team design individualized treatment plans to manage psoriatic arthritis based on the severity of your symptoms.

Treatment may include:

• Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
• Anti-rheumatic drugs
• Antimalarial drugs
• Biologic infusions
• Physical therapy
• Assistive devices
• Orthotics

Dr. Narula works closely with you to develop a plan that alleviates your pain and improves your quality of life.

Call Rheumatology Medical Center or book an appointment online to schedule your psoriatic arthritis evaluation today.