Could your joint pain be more than just arthritis or aging? Psoriatic arthritis is a chronic autoimmune condition that doesn’t just affect the joints—it often intertwines with the skin condition psoriasis, making it a double burden. Unlike osteoarthritis, psoriatic arthritis can strike at any age and is often progressive if not properly treated.
What Is Psoriatic Arthritis?
Psoriatic arthritis is a form of inflammatory arthritis that affects people with psoriasis. In many cases, the skin condition comes first, followed by joint symptoms. However, some may develop joint issues before any skin signs appear. The condition is triggered when the immune system mistakenly attacks healthy cells, leading to joint pain and swelling.
Recognizing the Signs of Psoriatic Arthritis
Because the symptoms can resemble other types of arthritis, recognizing the specific signs of psoriatic arthritis is essential for early treatment.
Common Symptoms
- Swollen and stiff joints, especially in the morning
- Sausage-like swelling in fingers and toes (dactylitis)
- Fatigue and low energy
- Nail changes, including pitting or lifting
- Eye inflammation
- Pain in the lower back or heels
If these symptoms sound familiar, it may be time to speak with a psoriatic arthritis doctor or specialist.
Getting a Diagnosis
Diagnosis usually starts with a primary care physician and moves to a psoriatic arthritis specialist, such as a rheumatologist. Because there’s no single test, diagnosis involves ruling out other conditions with blood work, imaging (like MRIs or X-rays), and physical examination.
The initial consultation with a psoriatic arthritis specialist can cost between $120 and $400, depending on the clinic and location. Imaging, if needed, can range in price, especially if advanced scans are required.
Best Medicine for Psoriatic Arthritis
There are many treatment options for psoriatic arthritis, and the right choice depends on your symptoms, severity, and personal health history. A psoriatic arthritis doctor will often recommend a combination of medications and lifestyle changes.
Common Treatment Options
- Nonsteroidal Anti-inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs): For pain and inflammation, especially in early or mild cases.
- DMARDs (Disease-Modifying Anti-Rheumatic Drugs): These slow disease progression.
- Biologic drugs: These target specific immune responses and are effective for many patients.
Among biologics, two commonly prescribed options are.
- Cosentyx (secukinumab): This biologic is administered by injection and blocks a protein involved in the inflammatory process. Without insurance, Cosentyx can cost around $8,000 per month, although assistance programs are often available to reduce out-of-pocket expenses.
- Otezla (apremilast): A non-biologic oral treatment that reduces inflammation by inhibiting an enzyme. It is often used for moderate psoriatic arthritis and can cost around $5,000 per month without insurance. Some savings programs may reduce this substantially.
Discussing these options with a psoriatic arthritis specialist ensures you find a treatment that works for your body and your budget.
Why Early Treatment Matters
Delaying treatment can lead to irreversible joint damage, disability, and diminished quality of life. Seeking early treatment from a psoriatic arthritis doctor not only reduces symptoms but also protects joint function.
Psoriatic arthritis can also increase the risk of other health issues like cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and depression. By controlling inflammation early, you reduce these associated risks.
Lifestyle Support and Home Care
While medication plays a central role in treatment, lifestyle changes can make a big difference.
- Exercise regularly: Low-impact activities like walking, swimming, and yoga improve mobility and reduce stiffness.
- Maintain a healthy weight: Excess weight can worsen joint pain and reduce medication effectiveness.
- Eat an anti-inflammatory diet: Focus on fish, leafy greens, and berries.
- Avoid smoking and limit alcohol: Both can aggravate inflammation and interfere with treatment.
Some patients also benefit from working with a physical therapist to learn joint-friendly movement strategies.
Finding the Right Specialist
A psoriatic arthritis specialist will work with you long-term to adjust treatments as symptoms change. Look for board-certified rheumatologists with experience in autoimmune joint diseases. Many clinics offer integrated care, including dermatologists, nutritionists, and physical therapists under one roof.
For those who can’t afford biologics or specialist visits, clinical trials may offer access low-cost treatment. It’s worth asking your doctor about trial opportunities in your area.
A Path Forward with Psoriatic Arthritis
Living with psoriatic arthritis can feel overwhelming, but with proper treatment, most people can manage symptoms and maintain a high quality of life. Whether you’re considering Cosentyx psoriatic arthritis or Otezla psoriatic arthritis, or simply looking for a diagnosis, taking action early is key. Reach out to a psoriatic arthritis specialist to explore the best medicine for psoriatic arthritis that fits your personal needs.
Taking Control of Your Joint Health
You don’t have to let psoriatic arthritis control your daily life. By learning the signs of psoriatic arthritis and finding the right psoriatic arthritis doctor, you can create a plan to reduce symptoms, improve mobility, and feel more like yourself again. Whether it’s your first symptom or you’ve been managing the condition for years, there’s always a new way forward.