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Psoriatic Arthritis

Rheumatology Center of New Jersey Our Services Psoriatic Arthritis

Rheumatology Center of New Jersey

Rheumatologists located in Princeton, Somerville, Flemington and Monroe, NJ

Psoriatic arthritis is a chronic form of arthritis that commonly affects people with the skin condition psoriasis. There is no cure for psoriatic arthritis, but the experienced team of doctors at the Rheumatology Center of New Jersey help patients relieve symptoms, slow disease progression, and improve their quality of life. To put an end to your suffering, call to learn more or book an appointment online at their Monroe, Somerville, or Flemington, New Jersey, location.

Psoriatic Arthritis Q & A

What is psoriatic arthritis?

Psoriatic arthritis causes joint inflammation and pain and can affect joints throughout your entire body. If you have psoriatic arthritis, you may also have psoriasis, a condition that causes red, scaly skin patches. Up to 30 percent of people with psoriasis develop psoriatic arthritis.

What are the symptoms of psoriatic arthritis?

The symptoms of psoriatic arthritis are similar to those of rheumatoid arthritis, such as:

  • Joint pain
  • Joint swelling
  • Swollen or deformed fingers or toes
  • Joint stiffness
  • Foot or back pain
  • Red, scaly and itchy skin patches if you have psoriasis

What are the risk factors for psoriatic arthritis?

It’s not entirely clear what causes psoriatic arthritis, but several factors may increase your risk of developing this chronic disease:

  • A family history of psoriatic arthritis
  • Having psoriasis (especially psoriatic lesions on your nails)
  • Age (between 30 and 50 years old)

How is psoriatic arthritis diagnosed?

To determine if you have psoriatic arthritis, your doctor at the Rheumatology Center of New Jersey:

  • Reviews your medical history
  • Performs a physical exam, checking for signs of swelling and tenderness, and abnormalities in your fingernails
  • Orders lab tests
  • Conducts imaging tests (X-rays, musculoskeletal ultrasounds, or MRIs)

How is psoriatic arthritis treated?

Your doctor at the Rheumatology Center of New Jersey develops an individualized treatment plan based on your symptoms and the severity of your psoriatic arthritis. Treatment options include:

  • Taking arthritis medications or receiving infusions to manage pain, relieve symptoms, and delay disease progression
  • Injections to improve joint function and reduce inflammation
  • Physical therapy

Things you can do at home to help reduce symptoms of psoriatic arthritis include maintaining a healthy weight, doing regular low-impact exercises, and protecting your joints from unnecessary stress (twisting jars, lifting heavy objects, etc.).

When you’re ready to ease the pain and treat the symptoms associated with psoriatic arthritis, call the Rheumatology Center of New Jersey to schedule an appointment or book online.

Conditions & Treatments