Spondylitis Psoriatic Arthritis
Treatment of Spondylitis Psoriatic Arthritis
A body massage, a healthy diet, and exercise are all important factors in the management of Spondylitis Psoriatic Arthritis. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications can help with inflammation and pain associated with Spondylitis Psoriatic Arthritis. Heat therapy is beneficial in easing the stiffness and joint pain, while ice or cold therapy can be used to reduce swelling.
What is Spondylitis Psoriatic Arthritis?
Spondylitis Psoriatic Arthritis is a variant of psoriatic arthritis primarily resulting in inflammation and or stiffness in the neck or spine. Spondylitis Psoriatic Arthritis can also affect the hands and feet, in a manner similar to symmetric arthritis. Other areas of involvement include the joints of the hips, shoulders and sacroiliac. Less than 20 % of psoriatic arthritis sufferers experience this type of psoriatic arthritis. It is three times more likely to occur in men rather than women. Onset of Spondylitis Psoriatic Arthritis usually occurs before age 45.
The Symptoms of Spondylitis Psoriatic Arthritis
The Symptoms of Spondylitis Psoriatic Arthritis include inflammation, pain and stiffness in the area of the ribs, hips, and thighs, lower back and along the spine. One may experience stiffness in the back in the morning or following a rest period. A warm shower, exercise and heat are beneficial in easing the back stiffness.
As the condition progresses it may result in a fusion of the vertebrae in the spine. Spinal fusion would cause a complete loss of spinal mobility, but with that the associated pain subsides. Care must then be taken as the bones in the fused spine are brittle and prone to breakage and injury.
Symptoms of eye involvement or ocular psoriasis may also occur. Fatigue is a common side effect of prolonged inflammation and pain. Inflammation in the heel and bottom of the foot are common as the condition progresses.
The Cause of Spondylitis Psoriatic Arthritis
The precise cause of Spondylitis Psoriatic Arthritis is unknown but appears to have a genetic link. Anywhere from 50 to 90% of Spondylitis Psoriatic Arthritis sufferers test positive for a genetic marker known as HLA B27. A simple blood test can be used to look for this genetic marker.
Additional genetic markers ARTS1 and IL23R support the evidence that Spondylitis Psoriatic Arthritis may result from a viral or immune system component. These genes affect the body's immune system and function.
