Therapy Interventions for Psoriatic Arthritis

Ella Clayton

Psoriatic arthritis is a chronic inflammatory disease that affects the joints and may cause stiffness, swelling, fatigue, and pain. The most affected sites include hands, feet, lower back, knees, and the neck. According to the National Psoriasis Foundation, psoriatic arthritis affects about 1 million people within the U.S. Currently, there is no cure for psoriatic arthritis, but various forms of treatment are available to manage symptoms and provide pain relief. Without intervention, psoriatic arthritis can cause permanent joint damage. Physical and occupational therapists can play an integral role in alleviating symptoms, improving mobility, reducing pain, and preventing disability.

Physical therapists will test client’s joint range of movement, perform strength testing, and test endurance. With this knowledge, physical therapists can assist clients in curating individualized fitness plans, improve range of motion and flexibility, reduce joint stiffness and pain, and provide instruction on how to safely engage in desired tasks. Some techniques physical therapists may utilize include stretching, gentle exercise, posture supports, and orthotics. Physical therapists work with clients to create individualized care plans, as symptoms of prostatic arthritis vary greatly.  

            Occupational therapists can work with individuals with psoriatic arthritis to overcome barriers in completing daily tasks and routines. An occupational therapist may suggest modifications or adaptive equipment to make daily tasks easier, work to manage fatigue, discuss techniques to protect joints from pain, and provide exercises to maintain strength, function, and range of movement. Occupational therapists not only assist with the physical limitations that come with a psoriatic arthritis diagnosis but also provide coping mechanisms and support for the emotional stress the client may experience.

            For individuals with psoriatic arthritis, having a team of passionate healthcare professionals can make a huge difference in their quality of life and well-being. Vertis Therapy’s team of physical and occupational therapists are proud to provide life-changing care to their clients with psoriatic arthritis!

Works Cited

Anwar Al Hammadi, MD. “Psoriatic Arthritis Treatment & Management: Approach Considerations,
Pharmacotherapy, Nonpharmacologic Therapy.” Psoriatic Arthritis Treatment & Management: Approach Considerations,
Pharmacotherapy, Nonpharmacologic Therapy, Medscape, 22 Feb. 2022, https://emedicine.medscape.com/article/2196539-treatment#d10.

Anwar Al Hammadi, MD. “Psoriatic Arthritis.” Practice Essentials, Background, Pathophysiology and Etiology,
Medscape, 22 Feb. 2022, https://emedicine.medscape.com/article/2196539-overview#a5.

“How Can I Make My Psoriatic Arthritis Life Easier?” Psoriasis and Psoriatic Arthritis Alliance (PAPAA),
https://www.papaa.org/learn-about-psoriasis-and-psoriatic-arthritis/further-resources/practical-help-to-manage-daily-living-skills/.

“Physical Therapy for Psoriatic Arthritis: Benefits and When to Start.” Medical News Today, MediLexicon International,
https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/how-when-to-see-physical-therapist-for-psa#treatable-symptoms.