Mumbai: Psoriasis is more than just a skin disease. While it commonly causes red, scaly patches on the skin, many patients are unaware that it can also affect the joints.
This condition is known as psoriatic arthritis and can cause serious joint damage if not diagnosed at the right time. It is the need of the hour to consult an expert in case of joint pain, especially among people already living with psoriasis, which can result in permanent stiffness and disability.
Raising awareness about this link is the key to early diagnosis and better patient outcomes.
Psoriasis is an autoimmune skin condition where the body’s immune system becomes overactive, causing skin cells to multiply too quickly. This leads to dry, itchy, scaly patches on the scalp, elbows, knees, or lower back.
However, in some people, the same immune reaction also attacks the joints, leading to psoriatic arthritis. Some people with psoriasis can also suffer from psoriatic arthritis, which can impact their overall well-being.
Dr Shafiuddin Nadvi, Orthopaedic Surgeon, Apollo Spectra Mumbai, said, “Psoriatic arthritis is often missed or misdiagnosed because patients assume their joint pain is unrelated to their skin condition. The symptoms experienced can be joint pain, especially in fingers, toes, knees, or ankles, morning stiffness that lasts more than 20 minutes, swelling of fingers and toes, fatigue, and reduced range of motion. 3 in 10 patients aged 35-65 diagnosed with psoriasis come with the complaints of joint pain and have the chance of suffering from psoriatic arthritis. If left untreated, psoriatic arthritis can lead to joint deformities, permanent stiffness, and reduced quality of life. Ignoring the symptoms can lead to irreversible joint damage. That’s why it’s so important for people with psoriasis to talk to their doctor if they experience even mild joint pain symptoms."
Dr Nadvi Added, "Early intervention with proper medications, lifestyle changes, and physiotherapy can prevent long-term complications. Treatment includes anti-inflammatory medications, disease-modifying drugs (DMARDs), and biologics that help slow joint damage. Regular exercise, joint-friendly movement, stress management, and a balanced diet can also help reduce flare-ups. Patients with psoriasis should have regular screenings for joint symptoms to catch the condition early."
Dr Srisanat Rao, Joint & Hip Replacement Surgeon, Zynova Shalby Hospital, Mumbai, Said, “Psoriasis patients can also be at risk of psoriatic arthritis. Many patients don’t realize that the inflammation causing their skin plaques can also take a toll on their joints. 1 out of 10 patients 20-30% diagnosed with psoriasis reports joint pain, indicating a risk of developing psoriatic arthritis. It is a progressive condition, and without timely treatment, there will be severe joint damage and dependence on family members for performing daily activities. Regular monitoring and timely management can help preserve joint function and improve the quality of life of patients. So, psoriasis patients should follow the guidelines given by the doctor and keep their joints healthy."
