Psoriatic arthritis is characterized by joint inflammation and stiffness and affects about 10% of those who have standard skin psoriasis.  A very small percentage of affected individuals develop severe / debilitating forms of this type of psoriasis.

Psoriatic arthritis tends to become noticeable around the age of 40 but it can occur at any age.  In cases with children, it can hinder bone development.  Staying consistent with the unpredictable nature of psoriasis, psoriatic arthritis can surface decades after the a person first notices the symptoms of basic skin psoriasis.

People with psoriatic arthritis oftentimes also have nail psoriasis (with all the accompanying symptoms).

Treatments include:

• Moderate exercise, especially of affected joints
• Steroid injections into problematic joints
• Dietary changes / supplements
• Ultraviolet light

Consult a dermatologist if you suspect that you might have psoriatic arthritis so you can determine, with the help of a medical professional, what would be your best course of action for treatment.