How To Manage Psoriatic Arthritis With Simple Lifestyle Changes

When the body’s immune system turns against itself, it leads to inflammation of the joints, causing an auto-immune disease known as psoriatic arthritis. People who suffer this type of arthritis also are known to have psoriasis, which is another auto-immune disease that causes raised red patches on the skin. 

Out of 7 million people in the country who have psoriasis, 30% eventually develop psoriatic arthritis. Though the exact cause is not known, it is believed to occur partly because of genetics and the environment. Psoriatic arthritis is said to be chronic and progressive but medications and lifestyle changes have helped reduce the impact.

Exercise
Low-intensity exercise is one of the best ways to relieve pain in the joints. The best choices would be swimming and walking. However, this cannot be overdone. One should simply not push themselves or set unrealistic goals. Sometimes, even gentle exercises can tear the joints. As a result, take it slow at an easy pace.

Eat a heart-healthy diet
The hallmark of psoriatic arthritis is inflammation. It can damage blood vessels and increase the risk of cardiovascular diseases. To reduce the risks involved, stay away from saturated fat, red meat, and refined products. Instead, eat more fresh fruits, veggies, and whole grains.

Spice up your food
According to the National Psoriasis Foundation, turmeric, an Indian spice, is an anti-inflammatory and antioxidant that helps control flares in both psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis when used liberally.

Eat more fish
It has been proved that fish oil can help with inflammation caused by psoriatic arthritis. Taking fish oil supplements and eating plenty of fatty fish like salmon and mackerel is good for the heart. It has proven to be beneficial for the joints as well.

Reduce alcohol and smoking
A recent study shows that most people suffering from psoriatic arthritis were smokers; they do not respond to medication. Smoking and certain medications for psoriatic arthritis could increase the risk of liver damage and therefore patients are advised to refrain from consuming alcohol.

Take a hot shower
Most patients who suffer from psoriatic arthritis wake up with stiffness and pain in their joints. It is especially hard for them in the mornings. To dissipate these symptoms and ensure a pain-free day, it is ideal to take a hot shower soon after waking up.

Accessorize carefully
People with psoriatic arthritis need not forego having a trendy bag or briefcase, but rather choose one that is small so that it does not strain the joints. Using a cross-body bag instead of a single shoulder bag could make all the difference.

Importance of posture
For anybody who has a muscular-skeletal issue, including psoriatic arthritis, maintaining posture is critical. It is important that people with arthritis do not slope forward but to keep an erect upper quadrant. Posture is just as important while sleeping for people with psoriatic arthritis. It is advised to keep a good alignment of the skeletal system. While sleeping on one side, place a pillow between the knees to even out the hips. Avoid sleeping on the side where you feel pain and use a pillow that does not cause you to strain your neck.

0

0