At Cura Health, we recognise the challenges faced by individuals living with psoriatic arthritis (PsA). This chronic inflammatory condition affects up to 30% of people with psoriasis, causing painful joint inflammation, stiffness, and damage. As we observe Psoriatic Arthritis Awareness Day, it’s essential to highlight how this condition affects individuals, explore available treatments, and share the latest research developments from the UK that are shaping PsA care.
What Is Psoriatic Arthritis?
Psoriatic arthritis is a type of arthritis that occurs in individuals who have psoriasis, a chronic skin condition characterised by red, scaly patches. PsA involves inflammation of the joints, leading to pain, stiffness, and swelling. If left untreated, PsA can cause permanent joint damage.
Common symptoms of Psoriatic Arthritis include:
Painful, swollen, and tender joints
Stiffness, particularly in the morning or after inactivity
Redness and warmth in affected joints
Fatigue
Nail changes, such as pitting or discolouration
Early diagnosis and treatment are essential to prevent long-term joint damage and maintain mobility.
Latest Research on Psoriatic Arthritis
Recent studies in the UK have provided new insights into the JAK/STAT pathway, an enzyme pathway in immune cells that plays a pivotal role in PsA. Research has demonstrated that inflammatory cytokines trigger the overproduction of synovial cells in joints, resulting in the abnormal tissue growth known as pannus, which can severely damage joints​.
New treatments targeting this pathway, such as JAK inhibitors, have proven effective in reducing synovial cell growth and inflammation. In 2024, NICE approved Rinvoq for treating moderate to severe PsA in individuals who have not responded to standard therapies​. This breakthrough treatment offers hope for patients who previously struggled to manage their symptoms.
Managing Psoriatic Arthritis: A Comprehensive Approach
At Cura Health, we believe in providing holistic care for PsA that combines medical treatment with lifestyle adjustments to improve overall well-being. Here are some key management strategies:
Medications: Treatments may include JAK inhibitors, DMARDs (disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs) like methotrexate, and biologics that target the immune system’s overactivity.
Exercise: Low-impact exercises such as swimming, walking, and yoga can help improve joint flexibility and reduce stiffness.
Diet: An anti-inflammatory diet rich in omega-3s and antioxidants can help manage inflammation.
Stress Management: Managing stress is essential in preventing PsA flare-ups. Techniques such as mindfulness, deep breathing, and adequate sleep can help.
We take a multidisciplinary approach to managing PsA, offering personalised treatment plans that incorporate both medical interventions and lifestyle adjustments.
When to Seek Help
If you have psoriasis and are experiencing joint pain or stiffness, it’s important to seek professional advice. Early diagnosis can slow the progression of PsA and prevent long-term joint damage. Our team of dermatology and rheumatology experts is here to provide comprehensive, personalised care for individuals living with psoriatic arthritis.
Book a consultation with our specialists at Cura Health to explore your treatment options and take control of your psoriatic arthritis.
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