Psoriatic arthritis can be very painful to joints in the hands and lower back and can also affect people with psoriasis, so the joint pain is combined with red patches on their skin. It can also start developing in people as early as 30 years of age, and the debilitating pain can bring on lifestyle changes that can keep you from the quality of life that you enjoy.
The good news is, between medication and lifestyle changes, psoriatic arthritis can be properly managed in order for you to be able to still do the things that you enjoy and not live in constant pain.
Topeka Center for Rehabilitation and Nursing has a look at five ways to help manage a psoriatic arthritis condition.
- Stay Active Outdoors
Even if it’s just going for a walk or doing some gardening, you’ll want to find an activity you enjoy that keeps your joints moving and getting fresh air outside is a natural mood enhancer. As you’ll see as the list goes on, improving mental health plays a part in how your body feels.
- Perform Deep Breathing Exercises
Being stressed can lower your overall level of pain tolerance, so performing deep breathing exercises when you feel a flare is on the way can help calm your body. Breathe in deeply through your nose, hold it for a few seconds, and exhale slowly out of your mouth.
- Clue in Your Loved Ones
Anyone with a chronic condition knows that sometimes it’s just too hard to get up and go do anything. If you’re finding that you have to cancel plans due to flare-ups, be honest with family and friends about your struggles. This will make you feel less guilty about canceling plans.
- Ask for Help When You Need It
Many people, especially if they’re younger, have difficulty asking for help with routine tasks, but if those closest to you understand that you sometimes have bad days, it will be easier to ask for and receive help when you need it.
- Find a Community to Relate To
Whether its in person or online in a community like Facebook, talking with like-minded people can help with comfort, understanding, venting, and you might even learn an extra tip or two to help manage your condition.
To learn more about Topeka Center for Rehabilitation and Nursing and all of the services they offer, visit http://topeka-center.facilities.centershealthcare.org.
