Psoriatic Arthritis is a form of inflammatory arthritis, sometimes linked to Psoriasis. Around 1 to 2 in every 10 people with psoriasis will go on to develop psoriatic arthritis, although it can occur in anyone.
The exact cause of Psoriatic Arthritis is not fully understood. It’s thought to involve a combination of genetic factors, immune system activity, and environmental triggers, such as infections although this hasn’t been definitively confirmed in research. The HLA-B27 gene has been linked to psoriatic arthritis, particularly when the spine is involved. However, this gene is common in the general population, and most people who carry it do not go on to develop the condition. 
Psoriatic arthritis can affect almost any joint in the body. It often occurs asymmetrically, meaning it may affect joints on one side of the body but not the other. It can also develop quite slowly with mild symptoms, or immediately with severe symptoms.
Common symptoms of Psoriatic Arthritis can include:
- Pain, swelling, and stiffness in one or more joints
- Pain and stiffness in the buttocks, lower back, or neck sometimes due to spinal inflammation (spondylitis)
- Pain in tendons, particularly at the back of the heel or the sole of the foot
- Changes in the nails, such as thickening, discolouration, or lifting away from the nail bed
- Eye symptoms, including pain and redness
Another distinctive feature is inflammation in the tendons and ligaments, not just the joints themselves. This can lead to pain and stiffness in areas such as the heels, elbows, or the bottoms of the feet. Some people also experience dactylitis, sometimes called “sausage digits,” where an entire finger or toe becomes swollen.
People living with psoriatic arthritis may also experience flares, where symptoms worsen for a period of time before settling again. Fatigue is also common, as ongoing inflammation can affect the whole body.
Without appropriate treatment, psoriatic arthritis can lead to permanent joint damage. Because it is driven by the immune system, management often involves medications that target inflammation and immune pathways, rather than relying solely on pain relief strategies.
The good news is that early diagnosis and treatment can make a significant difference. With the right support and care plan, many people with psoriatic arthritis are able to manage symptoms effectively and maintain a good quality of life.
If you’re living with Psoriasis and notice new joint pain, stiffness, or swelling, it’s important to speak with your GP. Early assessment can help ensure the right treatment is started as soon as possible.
You may be referred to a Rheumatologist, who can assess your condition and tailor treatment based on your symptoms and their severity. There’s no single treatment that works for everyone, so it may take some time to find the most effective approach for you.
Treatment options for Psoriatic Arthritis may include:
- Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
- Disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drugs (DMARDs)
- Biological DMARDs
These are often used alongside pain management strategies. A range of medications can help manage arthritis pain, and your doctor or pharmacist can guide you on what’s most appropriate and how to use them safely.
In addition to medication, other supportive treatments may also be recommended, such as:
- Heat and cold therapy
- Exercise and movement
- Physiotherapy and exercise physiology.
- Weight management
- Pacing and energy management.
- Assistive devices
- Massage therapy.
- Acupuncture
- TENS (Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation)
For more information about arthritis and self-management strategies, explore the resources and education programs available through the Arthritis Movement.
