Psoriatic Arthritis Treatment: Home Remedy Tips That Ease Joint Pain and Stiffness Naturally
Reviewed by: Dr. Kevin Lees, D.C.
Original article published by Woman's World, February 20th, 2025, on Psoriatic Arthritis Treatment: Home Remedy Tips That Ease Joint Pain and Stiffness Naturally
If you’re one of the millions of people dealing with psoriatic arthritis, you know just how frustrating it can be. One day, you’re moving just fine, and the next, you’re hit with joint pain, stiffness, and swelling. While there’s no cure for this chronic condition, the good news is that certain lifestyle changes can make a real difference in how you feel daily. We spoke with healthcare professionals about at-home psoriatic arthritis treatment options that can ease symptoms and improve quality of life.
What is psoriatic arthritis?
Psoriatic arthritis (PsA) is an autoimmune disease affecting the skin and joints. It primarily causes inflammation, leading to discomfort and mobility issues. It’s commonly associated with psoriasis, but not everyone will develop PsA. Unlike osteoarthritis, which results from wear and tear, PsA occurs when the immune system mistakenly attacks healthy joints and skin.
Psoriatic arthritis can affect people differently, but the most common symptoms include:
- Stiffness
- Joint Pain
- Swollen fingers or toes
- Persistent fatigue
These symptoms can range from mild to severe, with unpredictable flare-ups.
The best at-home psoriatic arthritis treatment tips
“The best type of management for PsA typically involves a combination of strategies that can ease symptoms and improve quality of life,” explains Lalitha McSorley, MScPT, Owner of Brentwood Physio. Here’s what you can do to take control of psoriatic arthritis and feel your best.
Move gently
Exercise might be the last thing you feel like doing when your joints ache. However, McSorley says gentle movement is a key part of treating psoriatic arthritis. “Low-impact exercises are generally best because, unlike high-impact exercises, they do not stress the joints and still allow for mobility,” she explains. McSorley recommends the following activities:
- Swimming
- Yoga
- Walking
- Cycling
- Gentle stretching
Note: “You must listen to your body,” advises McSorley. “Your healthcare provider will be able to provide you with more guidance based on your unique condition.” If a particular movement causes pain, modify it or try something different. And don’t forget to warm up and cool down; this can prevent unnecessary strain on affected joints.
Try an anti-inflammatory diet
While there’s no specific psoriatic arthritis diet, certain foods can help reduce inflammation. Try incorporating more of these anti-inflammatory foods into your meals:
- Fatty Fish like salmon and sardines. They’re rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which help fight inflammation.
- Leafy greens like spinach and kale. They’re packed with antioxidants that support overall health.
- Berries. These fruits are high in polyphenols that may help reduce oxidative stress and inflammation.
- Nuts and seeds. The crunchy snacks are great sources of healthy fats and anti-inflammatory compounds.
On the flip side, some foods can make PsA symptoms worse. “Avoiding highly processed foods and sugars can reduce weight gain and inflammation,” explains Kevin Lees, DC, Director of Chiropractic Operations at The Joint Chiropractic. He also suggests limiting food you may be sensitive to, such as dairy or spicy foods. These can all help keep your immune system calm.
Take care of your skin
Since psoriatic arthritis is linked to psoriasis, skin flare-ups can often trigger joint pain.
“Taking care of your skin can reduce these problems,” says Lees. He suggests the following skincare habits for people with psoriasis:
- Avoid getting sunburned or taking very hot showers or baths, which can dry out the skin.
- Use moist heat to help ease pain and stiffness. Lees suggests using “a moist heating pad or a warm Epsom salt bath.”
- Moisturize after showering.
If you have persistent skin flare-ups, talk to a dermatologist about prescription treatments that can help.
Experiment with cold and hot therapy
Cold and hot therapy can also help treat inflammation and joint stiffness in people with psoriatic arthritis. “Applying cold packs to the affected area can help reduce inflammation and swelling, while applying heat to the affected area can help relax stiff muscles and joints,” explains McSorley. “I often tell my patients to alternate between the two or do whichever gives them the most relief, especially during a flare-up.”
Make time to de-stress
“If the autoimmune system is more active, symptoms usually worsen. Stress can activate the immune system,” says Lees. “Keeping stress and inflammation low is the key to reducing progression and symptoms for psoriatic arthritis patients.”
Managing stress can be different for individual patients, adds Lees. “A short walk outside can be helpful; meditation, listening to music, and keeping a regular sleep schedule may help regulate stress hormones.” Other mindfulness techniques include:
- Meditation
- Journaling
- Engaging in activities you enjoy
Stress and sleep go hand in hand. “Possibly the most overlooked aspect is proper sleep,” notes McSorley. “Getting enough sleep is essential, as that is when your body repairs and reduces stress. So aim for 8 [hours].” Find expert-backed tips for improving your sleep schedule here.
The bottom line on at-home psoriatic arthritis treatment
Living with psoriatic arthritis can be challenging, but making small lifestyle changes can go a long way in improving your quality of life. “I think it’s important to listen to your body; it will tell you when it needs rest, food, and exercise,” adds McSorley.
About The Joint Chiropractic
The Joint Corp. revolutionized access to chiropractic care when it introduced its retail health care business model in 2010. Today, it is the nation’s largest operator, manager, and franchisor of chiropractic clinics through The Joint Chiropractic network. The company is making quality care convenient and affordable, while eliminating the need for insurance, for millions of patients seeking pain relief and ongoing wellness. With 800 locations nationwide and nearly 11 million patient visits annually, The Joint Chiropractic is a key leader in the chiropractic industry. Ranked number one on Forbes’ 2022 America’s Best Small Companies list, number three on Fortune’s 100 Fastest-Growing Companies list and consistently named to Franchise Times “Top 400+ Franchises” and Entrepreneur’s “Franchise 500®” lists, The Joint Chiropractic is an innovative force, where healthcare meets retail. For more information, visit www.thejoint.com.
Business Structure
The Joint Corp. is a franchisor of clinics and an operator of clinics in certain states. In Arkansas, California, Colorado, District of Columbia, Florida, Illinois, Kansas, Kentucky, Maryland, Michigan, Minnesota, New Jersey, New York, North Carolina, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Dakota, Tennessee, Washington, West Virginia and Wyoming, The Joint Corp. and its franchisees provide management services to affiliated professional chiropractic practices.
Media Contacts
The Joint Corp.
Margie Wojciechowski
margie.wojciechowski@thejoint.com
Office: (480) 245-5960 x 210
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