World Psoriasis Day 29th October 2015
World Psoriasis Day is a day specifically dedicated to people who have psoriasis and/or psoriatic arthritis. Approx 125 million people are living with psoriasis.
What is Psoriasis?
Psoriasis is an autoimmune disease which causes raised, red, scaly patches to appear on the skin. Psoriasis can appear in any location but particularly affects the elbows, knees and scalp. Psoriasis often develops between the ages of 15-35.
Approximately 11% of people who have the condition have also been diagnosed with Psoriatic arthritis. Psoriatic arthritis often goes undiagnosed, particularly when it is mild, however it is important to treat this condition as quickly as possible to prevent joint damage.
A patient who is suffering with Psoriatic arthritis may present with the following symptoms:
- Pain and stiffness in and around their joints
- Swollen fingers or toes
- A stiff neck and/or back
- Pitting, discolouration and thickening of their nails
- Tiredness
It can be difficult to tell the difference between Psoriatic arthritis and Rheumatoid arthritis so your doctor may want to take a blood test to rule out Rheumatoid arthritis.
If you have been diagnosed with Psoriatic arthritis or Rheumatoid arthritis there is a team of medical professionals at Avenue that will be able to support and advise you.
- Osteopathy and Physiotherapy- these therapists will work on your joints and muscles to help keep you mobile and ease the pain. They will also be able to give you exercises/stretches to help maintain your mobility and give you general advice on increasing your activity levels.
- Massage therapy – massage can help keep you supple and help with mobility, therefore easing pain.
- Acupuncture- can help manage your pain levels.
- Podiatry – a podiatrist can access your footcare needs and advise on suitable footwear.
- Nutritional Therapy – there is a strong link between diet and inflammation. A specific diet should help to prevent flare ups and decrease pain levels.
https://www.psoriasis.org/
