Psoriatic Arthritis
Psoriatic arthritis is a chronic inflammatory arthritis that affects some people with psoriasis, a skin condition that causes red, scaly patches. PsA can affect the joints, spine, tendons, and nails, leading to pain, stiffness, and swelling. Early diagnosis and treatment are essential to prevent long-term joint damage and preserve mobility.
At The Medical Group of New Jersey, our rheumatologists provide comprehensive evaluation and coordinated care to manage both joint and skin symptoms effectively.
Symptom Onset & Initial Evaluation
Psoriatic arthritis can develop gradually over time or appear suddenly, and symptoms often vary between individuals. Common features include:
- Joint pain, stiffness, and swelling, often affecting one side of the body more than the other
- Dactylitis (“sausage digits”), or swelling of entire fingers or toes
- Enthesitis, pain where tendons or ligaments attach to bone (commonly at the heels or elbows)
- Nail changes, such as pitting, ridging, or separation from the nail bed
- A personal or family history of psoriasis
During your visit, your rheumatologist at The Medical Group of New Jersey will examine your skin, nails, and joints and review your medical history to identify patterns typical of psoriatic arthritis.
Diagnosis
Diagnosis is based on a combination of clinical evaluation, imaging, and laboratory tests. These may include:
- Comprehensive physical exam of the skin, nails, and affected joints
- X-rays or MRI to detect early joint changes, erosions, or sacroiliitis (inflammation of the lower spine)
- Blood tests to rule out rheumatoid arthritis and other similar conditions
Treatment & Ongoing Management
Treatment for psoriatic arthritis focuses on reducing inflammation, controlling pain, protecting joints, and improving skin health. Your personalized plan may include:
- NSAIDs to relieve mild pain and stiffness
- Conventional DMARDs, such as methotrexate or sulfasalazine, to slow or prevent joint damage
- Biologic or targeted therapies that treat both skin and joint inflammation at the immune system level
- Physical therapy and weight management to enhance mobility, balance, and joint protection
At The Medical Group of New Jersey, our multidisciplinary approach connects rheumatology, dermatology, and physical medicine specialists to ensure integrated care and better long-term outcomes for patients living with psoriatic arthritis.
Follow-Up & Outlook
Ongoing care and regular follow-up visits are essential to monitor disease activity, adjust medications, and protect long-term joint health. With modern treatments and coordinated care, most patients can achieve lasting relief, maintain function, and keep psoriasis symptoms under control.