Psoriatic arthritis (PsA) can significantly impact the wrists and hands. Here are some key points:
Symptoms
- Pain and Stiffness: Painful, swollen, or stiff wrist joints can make daily tasks difficult. Members have reported difficulty picking up objects and typing.
- Nail Pitting: White spots, cracking, splitting, and Show Full Answer
Psoriatic arthritis (PsA) can significantly impact the wrists and hands. Here are some key points:
Symptoms:
- Pain and Stiffness: Painful, swollen, or stiff wrist joints can make daily tasks difficult. Members have reported difficulty picking up objects and typing.
- Nail Pitting: White spots, cracking, splitting, and pitting of the nails and nail beds.
- Migrating Pain: Discomfort can move from one joint to another, lasting from a few days to several weeks.
Treatment Options:
- Medications:
- NSAIDs: Over-the-counter options like Advil (ibuprofen) and Aleve (naproxen) for mild to moderate symptoms.
- DMARDs: Medications like methotrexate and leflunomide to reduce inflammation and slow disease progression.
- Steroid Injections: Administered directly into the affected joints to quickly reduce inflammation and ease discomfort.
- Therapies:
- Physical Therapy: Helps maintain wrist function and manage pain and stiffness.
- Occupational Therapy: Provides alternative ways to perform daily activities to reduce joint pain and strain, such as using adaptive equipment like lever-style handles.
Impact on Daily Life:
- Mobility Issues: Long-term impacts on joint mobility, making it hard to perform tasks like turning the wrist.
- Adaptive Strategies: Occupational therapists can suggest changes in the environment to reduce stress on the joints.
Community Support:
- MyPsoriasisTeam: A social network for people with psoriasis and PsA to share experiences and support each other.
For more detailed information, you can visit the following resources:
- [How Psoriatic Arthritis Affects the Wrists](https://www.mypsoriasisteam.com/resources/how-p...)
- [Psoriatic Arthritis in the Hands: Symptoms and Treatment Options](https://www.mypsoriasisteam.com/resources/psori...)
September 26, 2024