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6 Ways to Relieve Psoriatic Arthritis Flares

ahsan65@gmail.com4 days ago

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6 Ways to Relieve Psoriatic Arthritis Flares

To treat psoriatic arthritis symptoms during a flare-up, follow these steps.

1. Take Steps to Reduce Pain and Stiffness

For occasional discomfort, Fields says, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen (Advil) or naproxen (Aleve) may be beneficial. Ask your doctor about increasing the dose during a flare-up.
You can also try heat or ice at the source of the discomfort, says Fields. Wrap the cold compresses in a towel and apply them for no more than 15 or 20 minutes. Likewise, try a hot compress or heating pad for 20 minutes.
If pain persists, Fields adds, your doctor may recommend prescription painkillers or a steroid injection into the affected joint.

2. Ask your doctor

If you have stopped taking your medication, call your doctor to develop a plan for restarting and adjusting doses. Or if you’re not sure how to manage the flare-up yourself, ask your rheumatologist for advice.

3. Moderate your exercise routine

Proper exercise is essential for keeping joints and tendons relaxed, strengthening muscles, and maintaining a healthy weight.

During a flare-up, try gentler exercises, like walking, swimming, or yoga. If your condition prevents you from exercising, work with a physical therapist to get moving again.

4. Reduce stress during a flare-up

Not only is stress a trigger for psoriatic arthritis, but research has shown that “persistent stress and pain can reinforce and exacerbate each other.”

Breath work and deep breathing exercises can help relieve stress,

just like meditation. You can also try stress-relieving techniques like massage and acupuncture.

Seek emotional support. Let your family and friends know that you are having a flare-up and might need help or even just an ear to listen.

5. Get Extra Rest When Symptoms Flare

This may be easier said than done, especially if the pain is disrupting your sleep. Sleep disorders such as insomnia and obstructive sleep apnea are more common in people with psoriatic arthritis and psoriasis, according to the Arthritis Foundation.

To improve sleep quality, try adopting good sleep habits, such as going to bed early enough to get enough sleep, and stress reduction techniques to help you sleep well.

It is also important to pace yourself during the day and not overdo it. Conserve your energy by prioritizing what you need to do and taking breaks.

6. Consider using assistive devices

Your doctor may recommend various devices to provide additional support to an affected joint. A splint can be used to hold a joint in the best position to improve its function or to relieve pain and swelling. If you’re concerned about foot or heel pain, wear comfortable, supportive shoes and consider foot orthotics such as insoles or shoe pads that can provide relief and improve your gait. Talk to your doctor about your specific symptoms.

ahsan65@gmail.com4 days ago

0 0 2 minutes read