Psoriatic Arthritis Treatment

A number of different treatment²⁰ options are used to target different aspects of psoriatic arthritis. Some, such as over-the-counter pain relievers, are aimed at alleviating pain and discomfort, while others, such as immunosuppressants, target the immune system. Common treatment options include:

• NSAIDs: These over-the-counter (non-prescription) medications, called nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, can relieve pain and reduce inflammation. Examples include ibuprofen (generic Motrin, Advil) and naproxen (generic Aleve).
• DMARDs: Known as disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs, these medications can slow the progression of psoriatic arthritis and possibly save joints from being permanently damaged.
• Immunosuppressants: These medications are often used to treat autoimmune diseases. They work by suppressing (reducing) the actions of the body’s immune system. By weakening the immune system, immunosuppressants lessen attacks on the body’s tissues.
• Biologics: These are prescribed for psoriatic arthritis to slow or stop joint damage. Because this class of medications may cause serious side effects, such as increasing the risk of infections and blood clots, biologics are typically reserved for when all other treatments have failed.
• Novel agents: Apremilast (generic Otezla), can help decrease the body’s concentration of Phosphodiesterase-4 (PDE-4), an enzyme that controls inflammatory activity.

Psoriatic arthritis medication

Your provider may prescribe the following medications for psoriatic arthritis:

Other treatments used to help improve the signs and symptoms of psoriatic arthritis include:

• Steroid injections: These injections are administered directly into the joint, helping reduce inflammation.
• Joint replacement surgery: Joints that have degenerated significantly can be replaced with artificial prostheses made of metal or plastic.

Psoriatic arthritis diet

The inflammation caused by psoriatic arthritis can often be at least partially mitigated by eating a healthier diet²¹. Such diets often include anti-inflammatory foods, which can reduce potential flare-ups and help alleviate the symptoms of psoriatic arthritis. Omega-3 fatty acids, which can be found in fish and nuts, are usually a key part of anti-inflammatory diets.

Eating a diet high in anti-inflammatory properties can lead to a decrease in psoriatic arthritis’ activity within the body, as well as a reduction in joint swelling and tenderness. Conversely, eating a diet high in sodium and saturated fats can increase irritation, worsening swelling and pain.

Some foods high in Omega-3 fatty acids include fish (such as tuna and salmon), seaweed, hemp seeds, flaxseed oil, chia seeds, walnuts, and edamame. Foods high in antioxidants, especially fruits and vegetables, can also be effective²² in helping control the symptoms of psoriatic arthritis. Such foods include dark berries, leafy greens, nuts, ground spices, dark chocolate, and tea. Fiber, also an important component of controlling symptoms, can be found in whole grains, such as whole wheat, corn, quinoa, and brown rice.

As mentioned, it is important to avoid fatty foods, which can worsen inflammation. The main foods to avoid are red meat, dairy, and processed foods. If you’re looking for options to help maintain a healthy diet, some patients have found gluten-free diets²³ and the Mediterranean diet²⁴ to be effective in controlling symptoms.