Surprising Signs of Psoriatic Arthritis

From healthcentral.com

Best known for causing joint pain and skin issues, PsA can also bring on dizziness and low libido 

With psoriatic arthritis (PsA), the most common symptoms are joint pain and skin issues, like plaques, according to Zhanna Mikulik, M.D., a rheumatologist at The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center in Columbus, OH. But other less-common symptoms can sometimes appear. “In some cases, you may have only one issue, like eye disease, or stiffness without pain,” she says. “That’s why it’s important to know all the potential symptoms, rather than waiting for plaques or aching joints.” If you’ve already been diagnosed with PsA, you’ll want these lesser known symptoms on your radar.

Hearing Loss

                                                                                          Getty Images/Nes

In a study in The Journal of Rheumatology, researchers looked at 60 people with PsA with no history of problems with inner ear infections or other conditions that might affect hearing. They found that 60% of participants had abnormal hearing loss, which suggests PsA may contribute to inner ear damage. Another study of more than 10,000 people found similar results; those researchers suggested chronic inflammation from PsA affects the structure of the inner ear. The researchers noted that hearing loss may impact mental health, too. If you’ve been diagnosed with PsA and are having trouble hearing, talk to your doctor.

Dizziness

Your inner ear is responsible for preventing dizziness and vertigo. So along with hearing issues, inner ear inflammation can lead to other symptoms such as poor balance and dizziness. These effects can be particularly pronounced if you're taking medications such as antidepressants, sleep aids, or blood pressure drugs, according to Anca Askanase, M.D., a professor of medicine in the division of rheumatology at Columbia University College of Physicians and Surgeons in New York City. Dizziness can also worsen if you're dealing with dehydration, low blood sugar, or low blood pressure, in addition to your PsA, she adds.

Low Libido

Recent research suggests that people with psoriatic arthritis are more likely to experience sexual dysfunction than those without the condition. Physical discomfort during intimacy, anxiety about lack of desire, and side effects from treatment can play a role, says psychotherapist Lee Phillips, Ed.D, a certified sex and couples therapist in New York City and Washington DC, and host of the Sex and Chronic Illness podcast. “PsA and other chronic diseases tend to disrupt the desire and arousal phases of the sexual response cycle,” Phillips says. “Talking to your health provider or a therapist can be hugely helpful for navigating this issue.”

Tendon Pain

                                                   Getty Images/kazuma seki

Enthesitis, which is inflammation at the insertion sites of tendons and ligaments into the bone (called entheses), is seen in up to 40% of people with psoriatic arthritis, says Dr. Mikulik. Unlike joint pain, which can feel sharp and deep within a joint, enthesitis is usually an ongoing ache that comes with tenderness. One common example in people with PsA is plantar fasciitis, which causes a “stretched too tight” feeling in the tendon on the bottom of the foot. Enthesitis can also target the shoulders, elbows, hips, knees, and heel of the foot. Stretching, meds, and ice can all help.

Dactylitis (a.k.a. Sausage Fingers)

Sometimes called “sausage fingers,” dactylitis is characterized by swollen, painful fingers and toes. This can affect just one digit or several, says Dr. Mikulik. Unless it’s managed, she adds, ongoing swelling may cause damage to the affected joints and make it difficult to do everyday activities. Usually, with PsA, the swelling is asymmetrical—for example, you may notice issues with your right hand and left foot. Research suggests about 40% of people with PsA deal with dactylitis. Like other PsA symptoms, dactylitis is related to uncontrolled inflammation, so treatment options address that cause.

Eye Issues

                                                                                Getty Images/bukharova

Inflammation with psoriatic arthritis can also severely affect the eyes. The most common outcome is conjunctivitis (a.k.a. “pink eye”), which is seen in around 20% of people with PsA, says Dr. Mikulik. “This presents as redness, itching, tearing, and possibly crusting of the eye,” she notes. “It happens when the outer membrane of the eyeball and inner eyelid become inflamed.” Another concern is uveitis—a condition that can cause redness, eye pain, light sensitivity, and blurry vision. Dr. Mikulik says it occurs in about 7% of those with PsA. Conjunctivitis is usually treated with an antibiotic, while steroids are typically prescribed for uveitis.

Depression

Any chronic disease can prompt emotional health challenges, and PsA is no exception, says Dr. Phillips. A study in Rheumatology and Therapy found depression affects about 20% of those with PsA—but that number may be higher, as not everyone with psoriatic arthritis and depression gets diagnosed. The study suggests that depression is more likely if PsA is accompanied by an additional chronic disease, known as a comorbidity. If you’re struggling with sadness, anger, or irritability, be sure to bring it up with your doctor so you can start on the path to feeling like yourself again.

Lower Back Pain

                                                          Getty Images/Nes

As a result of PsA, you may develop a condition called spondylitis, which involves inflammation in the joints of the vertebrae. Spondylitis causes stiffness, Dr. Mikulik says, which tends to be worse in the morning, but gets better with activity. For this reason, gentle stretching and regular movement is recommended. This type of pain and stiffness is most common in the lower back, but can occur anywhere in the spine, including the neck.

High Blood Pressure

The risk of heart disease may be nearly double in people with psoriatic arthritis, according to the Arthritis Foundation, due to body-wide inflammation that can lead to high blood pressure and high cholesterol. Because of this, it’s crucial to get regular check-ups and manage your PsA well, says Dr. Askanase. Uncontrolled inflammation can narrow arteries and reduce the flow of blood to the heart and other organs, putting you at higher risk for a cardiovascular event like heart attack or stroke. Bottom line: If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, talk with your doctor. Together you’ll come up with a plan to keep PsA at bay.

https://www.healthcentral.com/slideshow/ways-psoriatic-arthritis-affects-your-body?ap=nl2060&rhid=67ec2b8321f52bf01b0cca01&mui=&lid=141093361&mkt_tok=NTQxLUdLWi0yNDMAAAGgmxXdJZxhTum4Nzb_JpUkx8UCUV9uREXlc31mwz374IoHVkX9YIqw0VzKGl_1o6bD0mulCkZLRqH_J2GmXVgB7tyf0xpWcFNDm9Zl24bxg_ayHXU

5 Foods That Can Help Prevent an Arthritis Flare-up

From eatingwell.com

When you have arthritis, what you eat can make a difference 

KEY POINTS

• Fatty fish, leafy greens, nuts, turmeric and beans may help prevent arthritis flares. 
• They are anti-inflammatory and rich in protective fats, protein, fibre and antioxidants.
• For even more arthritis protection, experts recommend following the Mediterranean diet.

When you’re dealing with stiff, achy or swollen joints, arthritis flare-ups can be painful and tough to manage. Even if you know these symptoms are temporary, you may still feel compelled to make some changes in hopes of feeling better. For many people, that change starts with the foods they eat. 

But can what’s on your plate actually help prevent an arthritis flare-up? While there is no food that will magically stop an arthritis flare in its tracks, the foods you do or don’t eat may help prevent it from happening. “The evidence supports sticking with a consistent anti-inflammatory eating pattern like the Mediterranean diet all the time, and not changing your diet when symptoms flare,” says Michelle Seguin, M.D. “Your best bet is maintaining healthy eating habits year-round rather than trying to eat differently when symptoms worsen.”

Research shows that a Mediterranean diet pattern that’s rich in whole foods like fish, nuts, beans and legumes, whole grains, fruits and vegetables, yet low in saturated fat and processed foods, can help fight inflammation and may even improve symptoms like joint pain in people with rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis. 

That said, some foods may be particularly beneficial. If you’re curious to learn more about the best foods to fend off arthritis symptoms, here’s what experts recommend. 

1. Fatty Fish

Inflammation is a major driver of arthritis pain. That’s where fatty fish like salmon and sardines come in. Fatty fish contain DHA and EPA, long-chain omega-3 fatty acids that help fight inflammation. Research shows these unique fats may be particularly beneficial for managing rheumatoid arthritis.

If you’re wondering how much you should eat, a good goal is at least two servings of fatty fish each week. As a helpful tip for finding fish that are rich in omega-3s but also low in mercury, Amanda Sauceda, M.S., RD, suggests thinking of the acronym SMASH. “Salmon, mackerel, anchovies, sardines and herring are good options to rotate in your diet,” she says. But if fish isn’t your thing, a fish oil supplement providing 2,000 milligrams of combined EPA and DHA may be a good alternative. Speak with your health care provider before beginning any supplements.

2. Leafy Greens

“Leafy greens are a great source of vitamin K, which is helpful for bone health but could also be helpful with lowering the risk of osteoarthritis,” Sauceda says. These veggies are so powerful that one study found that people who typically ate lots of green veggies were 26% less likely to develop osteoarthritis. Like other fruits and vegetables, leafy greens also tend to be rich in antioxidants, which have additional anti-inflammatory properties. 

3. Nuts

“For people with osteoarthritis who are overweight, losing weight through diet and lifestyle changes can significantly reduce joint pain and improve how you move,” Seguin says. That’s where nuts come in. Nuts provide protein and fibre, two slowly digested nutrients that may help with weight management. 

That’s not the only way they help your joints. Nuts are also rich in many antioxidants, which have been shown to protect against inflammation. Whether you enjoy them on their own as a snack or sprinkled over yogurt or cereal, they’re a great choice that requires zero prep work.

4. Turmeric

This vibrant yellow-orange spice is a natural anti-inflammatory, which may be helpful for reducing arthritis-related joint pain and swelling. Right now, the body of research is promising but limited, and experts say more study is needed. In the meantime, adding turmeric to your favourite dishes is safe and delicious, so there’s no downside to sprinkling some on your food. That said, high doses of turmeric in supplement form may cause stomach upset, so think food first.

Sauceda points out another plus to adding flavourful spices, like turmeric, to your food. “Adding more herbs and spices to your diet makes food more enjoyable, and you’re more likely to eat the food you make,” she says. “Reducing the amount of processed food in your diet and eating more homemade food is a great way to start working on your anti-inflammatory diet.” 

5. Beans & Legumes

Beans are a central ingredient in the Mediterranean diet, which experts say is the most promising eating pattern for arthritis protection. Not only are beans and legumes rich in protein and fiber, they’re also jammed with a long list of anti-inflammatory compounds. That means they may do double duty to protect your joints by fending off inflammation and supporting a healthy body weight.  

The new Dietary Guidelines for Americans recommends eating 3½ cups of beans and legumes per week (about ½ cup daily). Pinto beans, black beans, chickpeas, lentils and red kidney beans are all good options. If you’re not sure where to begin, Sauceda recommends swapping out your meat-centred meals twice a week and reaching for a plant-based protein like beans or legumes instead. Then, slowly increase from there. 

Our Expert Take

While there’s no magical food that will stop an active arthritis flare-up, there are some foods that can help prevent it from happening in the first place. Fatty fish, leafy greens, nuts, turmeric, and beans and legumes are all filled with nutrients that can help reduce inflammation and may ease joint pain. However, the real trick for leveraging the power of foods is focusing on the big picture. “The hope is that maintaining an anti-inflammatory eating pattern consistently may mean fewer or less severe flares over time,” says Seguin. So, aim to eat a wide variety of whole foods, including fruits, vegetables, whole grains, fatty fish, nuts and seeds, spices, and beans and legumes—and do your best to limit highly processed foods, added sugars and saturated fats. It will do good things for your joints and the rest of your body, too.

https://www.eatingwell.com/foods-to-prevent-an-arthritis-flare-up-11920981

Weak knees at 40? Orthopaedic surgeon explains 4 keys reasons behind premature knee arthritis, shares prevention tips

From hindustantimes.com

The knees are among the most underrated joints, which are responsible for bearing your entire body weight – Dr Rathi explains why knees start weakening early

Our knees are one of the body’s most hardworking joints, silently carrying our entire weight and enabling everyday movements – from walking and climbing stairs to simple daily tasks. Yet they often go unnoticed until pain begins to interfere with mobility. In recent years, knee discomfort has become increasingly common, especially among older adults, with osteoarthritis emerging as one of the most widespread joint conditions in India.

Experts warn that cases are rising steadily, but the encouraging news is that many of the underlying causes are preventable. With timely awareness and a few lifestyle changes, it may be possible to protect knee health and reduce the risk of long-term joint damage.

HT Lifestyle reached out the Dr Akhilesh Rathi – the director of robotics, joint replacement, orthopaedics and sports injury at Sri Balaji Action Medical Institute, Paschim Vihar, and the founder of Rathi Orthopaedics and Spine Clinic in Dwarka, New Delhi – to gain his expert insights on the matter.

He explains, “Our knee joint works like a smooth mechanical hinge. The ends of the bones are covered with cartilage – a soft, shock-absorbing layer that allows painless movement. When this cartilage gradually wears out, the bones start rubbing against each other. This leads to pain, swelling, stiffness and sometimes the frightening feeling that the knee may give way while walking. Medically, this is called osteoarthritis.”

                                                       Knee pain starts with negligence and lifestyle habits. (Unsplash)

Why knees start failing

Dr Rathi highlights, “Earlier, knee arthritis was mostly seen after 60 years of age. Today I routinely see patients in their 40s and even late 30s. The reason is not fate – it is lifestyle.” He outlines the following reasons for prematurely weaker knees:

1. Excess body weight

Increasing body weight places additional strain on the knees. Dr Rathi highlights that every extra kilogram of body weight can translate to nearly three times that load on the knee joints, significantly increasing the pressure they must bear during everyday activities such as walking, climbing stairs, or standing.

He emphasises, “Every extra kilogram of body weight puts nearly three to four kilograms of additional pressure on the knee joint while walking. Over years, the cartilage simply cannot tolerate this load.”

2. Weak thigh muscles

According to the surgeon, strong thigh muscles – particularly the front quadriceps – act as a natural support system for the knees. When these muscles weaken due to years of inactivity or prolonged sitting, the knees lose an important source of stability and support.

He explains, “The quadriceps muscles in the front of the thigh act as a natural support system for the knee. When these muscles weaken due to inactivity or long sitting hours, the knee loses stability. That is when patients experience ‘buckling’.”

3. Sedentary routine

According to Dr Rathi, a sedentary lifestyle, prolonged sitting – often linked to desk-bound jobs – and little to no physical activity are key contributors to knee instability and pain later in life.

He highlights, “Desk jobs, long screen time, and almost no physical activity have become the most common risk factors I see today.”

4. Old injuries

Dr Rathi highlights that the ghosts of past ligament or meniscus injuries can come back to haunt you later in life, especially if they were not treated or rehabilitated properly at the time. He warns that unresolved knee injuries can gradually damage the joint and significantly increase the risk of developing arthritis in the future.

The surgeon cautions, “A ligament tear or meniscus injury in youth, even if ignored at that time, often turns into arthritis years later.”

The biggest myth about rest

Dr Rathi highlights that one of the biggest myths surrounding knee pain is that rest alone can cure it. In his practice, he often sees people who begin avoiding walking or movement as soon as the pain starts, believing it will help the knee recover. However, he warns that this approach can actually make the problem worse. According to him, prolonged immobility does not cure knee pain – it often leads to greater stiffness and reduced joint function over time.

The surgeon emphasises, “A knee doesn’t heal by being immobilised – it only becomes stiff. Controlled movement is essential. The joint receives nutrition through motion. Without activity, stiffness increases and muscles weaken further.”

What actually helps

Dr Rathi highlights, “Strong muscles reduce the load on cartilage and act like a protective brace around the knee.” He outlines the following ways that can help prevent or manage knee pain:

• Regular walking on flat ground
• Quadriceps strengthening exercises
• Cycling or swimming
• Guided physiotherapy
• Weight reduction

                                                     Engaging your knees in activity can delay onset of pain. (Unsplash)

What to avoid

Dr Rathi warns that patients should be careful of the following:

• Frequent stair climbing
• Jumping exercises
• Deep squatting or sitting cross-legged for long periods
• Sudden high-intensity workouts after years of inactivity

Treatment options

According to the surgeon, in early stages, knee arthritis can often be controlled with exercise, weight management, and medication for pain relief when necessary. In moderate cases, injections and physiotherapy provide good improvement.

Dr Rathi suggests, “Surgery is not the first step – it is the last. But when cartilage is completely worn and daily life becomes difficult, knee replacement surgery becomes a very effective solution. Modern knee replacement allows patients to walk comfortably again and regain independence.”

The key takeaway

Dr Rathi stresses that knee arthritis does not develop overnight. The body gives warning signs – morning stiffness, difficulty in getting up from a chair, and knee buckling. Ignoring these signals only makes treatment more complicated later.

He concludes with the following advice: “Your knees are designed for movement. Protect them with activity, control your weight, and seek help early. The earlier you act, the longer you can avoid surgery and keep your natural joints healthy.”

Note to readers: This article is for informational purposes only and not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your doctor with any questions about a medical condition.

https://www.hindustantimes.com/lifestyle/health/weak-knees-at-40-orthopaedic-surgeon-explains-4-keys-reasons-behind-premature-knee-arthritis-shares-prevention-tips-101773305878188.html

Bay Area chiropractor says he is seeing "text neck," pre-arthritis symptoms in younger people

From cbsnews.com

A Bay Area chiropractor is sounding the alarm as he says he has been seeing more younger clients experiencing symptoms from "text neck." 

"You would start to feel tightness in the cervical spine here, it's going to come down and tight pulling sensation," Dr. Paul Dancy of Joint Chiropractic in San Leandro, told CBS News Bay Area. 

"Children are now starting to come in with text neck. And some children are starting to come up with pre-arthritis before they're 21. That's never been heard of," he added. 

He advises people to lie down, extend their arms, and hold the phones above their heads, or people should hold their phone at eye level, rather than looking down.

"Bring the phone all the way up, all the texting you need to do, respond to emails. Hold it neck up," Dr. Dancy said. 

Angel McTiller has been seeing Dr. Dancy for the past seven years, and said she's been having neck pains. 

"Because it's like constant, yeah, and so now, I just have relief," she told CBS News Bay Area. 

She added that she is concerned about this alarming trend of text neck in the younger generation. 

"It's creating more health issues for these children and it's not giving them the quality of life that they need, especially growing up in their formative years, and it's taking away from that," McTiller said. 

Bianca Ennix is an attorney and said she spends hours in front of a screen every day. She said that she is taking measures to help prevent worse symptoms. 

"Lift my computer up so that my screen is straight ahead instead of me looking down, which is great," she said. "He's suggested different cushions I could put in the back of my chair so it could help support my lower back."

Dr. Dancy is passionate about his work and said he hopes to continue serving and educating families in the Bay Area. 

"Do good work in the community, serve the community, and that's what allowed me to be here for 27 years," he said. 

https://www.cbsnews.com/sanfrancisco/news/bay-area-chiropractors-text-neck-pre-arthritis-symptoms-younger-people/?ftag=CNM-00-10aag7e 

The Best Non-Drug Treatments for Knee Arthritis

From msn.com/en-sg

After decades of wear and tear, your knees may be aching from arthritis. There are many non-drug treatments on the market, but which work best?

According to a new study, knee braces, water therapy and exercise are the most beneficial.

The researchers say, “They reduce pain and improve mobility without the gastrointestinal or cardiovascular risks linked to common pain medications.”

Using data from 139 clinical trials, they compared 12 different knee arthritis treatments that don’t involve drugs. The trials included more than 9,600 patients, 18 and older, with knee osteoarthritis, which occurs when cartilage breaks down over time and bones start rubbing together.

Knee braces came out on top in most categories, including reducing pain, improving function, and relieving stiffness.

Treatments performed in warm water… known as  hydrotherapy... also worked particularly well for easing pain, according to the results.

General exercise was found to consistently improve both pain and physical function, including aerobic, mind-body, strengthening and flexibility exercises.

And while high-intensity laser therapy and shock wave therapy showed some benefits, ultrasound consistently scored lowest in terms of effectiveness in treating knee pain.

The authors say these findings “could reshape clinical guidelines to focus on safer, lower-cost interventions.”

It’s estimated more than 10% of people older than 60 have knee arthritis.

Source: PLOS One

Author Affiliations: First People’s Hospital of Neijiang

https://www.msn.com/en-sg/news/other/the-best-non-drug-treatments-for-knee-arthritis/ar-AA1H26DV?apiversion=v2&domshim=1&noservercache=1&noservertelemetry=1&batchservertelemetry=1&renderwebcomponents=1&wcseo=1