What Are the Symptoms of Psoriatic Arthritis?
Psoriatic arthritis is a type of inflammatory arthritis that often affects people with psoriasis, a skin condition that causes red, scaly patches. Common symptoms include joint pain, stiffness, and swelling, particularly in the fingers, toes, lower back, and heels. Many people also experience fatigue, changes in nails (like pitting or separation), and morning stiffness that lasts for more than 30 minutes. Unlike rheumatoid arthritis, which primarily targets the lining of the joints, PsA can also affect tendons, ligaments, and even the skin. Symptoms can vary from mild to severe and often flare up unpredictably.
What Causes Psoriatic Arthritis?
Psoriatic arthritis is an autoimmune conditions, but isn’t fully understood exactly how and why the immune system decides to mistakenly attacks healthy tissues, causing inflammation. Interleukin 23 is involved, and research supports this, with monoclonal antibodies against IL-23 forming the basis of the newest biologic treatments for PsA.
Genetics seem to play a big role, as the condition tends to run in families. But families also pass on similar diets, lifestyles, and reversible epigenetic signals during pregnancy (genes are turned off by methylation of DNA bases). So, it is hard to tell which part is genetic and which part is passed-down habits and imprinting. Environmental triggers, such as infections, stress, or injuries, can also play a part in triggering symptoms. For people with psoriasis, the risk of developing psoriatic arthritis increases significantly. In fact, about 30% of those with psoriasis will develop psoriatic arthritis, according to the National Psoriasis Foundation.
What Medications Are Used for Treatment?
There are several conventional treatment options for psoriatic arthritis. More powerful drugs are used as the condition gets worse:
- NSAIDs (Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs): Over-the-counter options like ibuprofen or naproxen (brand name Aleve) can reduce pain and inflammation but don’t prevent joint damage.
- DMARDs (Disease-Modifying Antirheumatic Drugs): These drugs, like methotrexate or sulfasalazine, work by slowing disease progression and protecting joints from permanent damage. They’re often prescribed when NSAIDs aren’t enough.
- Biologics (Monoclonal Antibodies): These advanced treatments, such as Tremfya (generic drug name guselkumab), target specific parts of the immune system (IL-23) to reduce inflammation and prevent joint damage. While they’re highly effective at symptomatic relief, they can be expensive and come with potential side effects like increased infection risk, nausea, headaches, injection site reactions, and in some cases, gastrointestinal issues.
How Well Do the Medications Work?
Medications can be highly effective in managing symptoms and slowing the progression of psoriatic arthritis, but they’re not a cure. None of these medications deal with the root cause. NSAIDs just offer very short-term temporary relief. DMARDs and biologics can significantly reduce inflammation and joint damage, but their effectiveness varies from person to person. Ultimately, they just slow down the progression of the disease. Additionally, some people experience side effects that make them quit using the drugs.
What Is a Natural Approach to Overcoming Psoriatic Arthritis?
While conventional treatments are valuable, many people look for natural ways to support their health and reduce symptoms. Here is a five-fold strategy that can help get to the root cause of PsA:
Plant-Based Diet
A diet rich in fruits, vegetables, berries, nuts, seeds, legumes, organic whole grains, and healthy fats can reduce inflammation and improve overall health. Foods high in omega-3 fatty acids, like flaxseeds, chia seeds and walnuts, may help decrease joint pain. Avoiding processed foods, added sugars, and red meats can also make a difference. The emphasis in the diet should be on anti-inflammatory foods.
Healing the gut is very important with all autoimmune diseases. A plant-based diet can be the foundation for addressing leaky gut syndrome. Avoiding any foods, like grains, that cause allergic responses, or food sensitivities should be avoided while the gut is healing. Fermented foods can be very helpful for replenishing beneficial bacteria in the gut.
Exercise
Regular, low-impact exercise like swimming, walking, or yoga can improve joint flexibility, reduce stiffness, and boost mood. Strength training can also help support joint health by building muscle. Becoming sedentary may feel like a good temporary strategy to avoid pain, but in the long run being inactive leads to even more pain and faster progression of the disease.
Stress Management
Stress can worsen autoimmune conditions like psoriatic arthritis. Spending time outdoors doing activities that help you unwind can improve your state of mind. Talking to God in prayer is the foundation of a deep connection to your Creator. He knows you and wants you to know how much He loves you. Let Him take your stressful situations and bring about the outcome that He deems best.
Sleep
Quality sleep is essential for healing and reducing inflammation. Aim for 7-9 hours of restful sleep each night in a dark, cool room. Your body regenerates, cleanses, and rebuilds while you sleep. No sleep, no recovery. Become a student of great sleep and do what you need to in order to improve your sleep until it is fantastic.
Dietary Supplements:
Turmeric (Curcumin)
Curcumin, the active ingredient in turmeric, has potent anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce joint pain and swelling associated with psoriatic arthritis. Studies show that curcumin inhibits inflammatory pathways and can be a natural alternative to NSAIDs for managing symptoms.
Vitamin D
Vitamin D is crucial for immune system regulation and bone health. Many people with psoriatic arthritis have low levels of vitamin D, which can exacerbate symptoms. Supplementing with vitamin D can help reduce inflammation and support overall health. Aim for a blood level of 25(OH)D of 50-80 ng/ml, using a blood test to confirm that you are getting enough vitamin D.
Omega-3 Fats
Omega-3 fatty acids, found in fish oil and plant-based sources like flaxseeds and chia seeds, are known for their anti-inflammatory benefits. These fats can help decrease joint stiffness and improve overall joint health. Liquid fish oil is a great choice for easily getting enough EPA and DHA.
Green Tea Extract and Grape Seed Extract
Green tea extract contains polyphenols, particularly EGCG, which have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. Grape seed extract also has notable anti-inflammatory effects. Regular use of both of these extracts may help reduce the severity of psoriatic arthritis symptoms while promoting overall health.
Resveratrol, Quercetin, and Boswellia Serrata
Resveratrol, found in purple grapes and berries, has anti-inflammatory and immune-modulating properties. Quercetin, a flavonoid found in apples and onions, helps stabilize immune responses. Boswellia serrata, also known as Indian frankincense, is an herb used in traditional medicine that has been shown to reduce inflammation and improve joint function.
Joint Health Supplement from Hallelujah Diet
Joint Health, a proprietary supplement from Hallelujah Diet, combines curcumin, boswellia serrata, grape seed extract, and avocado/soy unsaponifiables. This blend is designed to target inflammation, support cartilage repair, and improve joint mobility. It’s a convenient and effective option for those seeking natural relief from psoriatic arthritis symptoms.
It is best to consult with a natural minded healthcare provider before taking lots of supplements to ensure that they are appropriate for your specific needs.
Testimonies of Dietary Interventions
Here at Hallelujah Diet, many people have shared inspiring stories of how adopting the Hallelujah Diet has improved their psoriasis and rheumatoid arthritis. Psoriatic arthritis will likely be impacted similar to rheumatoid arthritis. Here are a couple of inspiring true stories:
Here is Betty’s story:
“I started The Hallelujah Diet in August 2005. Prior to adopting the diet, I had been very sick for many years, suffering with severe digestive problems. The doctors had done numerous tests, but could never find anything wrong. In one two month period, I had to go to the emergency room three times suffering with this problem. I had asthma so bad I could hardly walk from the car into the house, and was taking 4 medications for it. I also had two kinds of arthritis! I have had psoriasis since I was two years old, and prior to adopting The Hallelujah Diet, my body was 95% covered. Before the diet change, I was also taking 2 pills a day for fluid retention. “In seven months on The Hallelujah Diet, I have experienced the following improvements. Digestive problems were gone within 2 months! I no longer need medication for asthma. Problem gone! all psoriasis gone except for a little around ankles, which is fast leaving! No longer have fluid retention, and no longer take medication! My cholesterol dropped from 250 to 175 in one month! I lost 35 pounds in 5 months! My eyesight has improved! My husband tells me that I don’t snore anymore! My skin was no longer dry within one month of making the diet change! I now realize that before adopting The Hallelujah Diet, it was the wrong foods I was eating, and the medications I was taking, that were causing all the physical problems I was experiencing. I used to sleep a lot, had no energy, and just existed. Now I have lots of energy, and living life to the fullest.”
Listen to these results from Francis C. of Granville, OH:
“I began The Hallelujah Diet on May 14, 2008. At the time I began the diet, I had been a Type II diabetic for years, on the drugs Metformin and Glyberide. Doctors had told me I was diabetic because diabetes ran in my family and I was predestined to have the condition. In addition to the diabetes medicine, I had been on Synthroid for my thyroid ever since my thyroid had almost completely shut down ten years ago. In fact, in February 2008, my doctor increased my Synthroid dosage. I was also on High Blood pressure medication and a High Cholesterol medication. “In addition to the above physical problems, I had been suffering with Psoriasis for the past 20 years, and each year the condition was worsening, sometimes to the point where my hands cracked and bled. I also had been suffering with allergies that continued to get worse with each passing spring, and I was 25 pounds overweight. Since going on The Hallelujah Diet cold-turkey just two months ago, I have not cheated, not even one time. “As a result of the diet change, I have gone from a size 12 to a size 6. My blood sugars have been in the normal range after just 2 days of beginning the diet. The psoriasis has almost completely cleared up, and I now have the energy I had when I was 20 years old, and I’ll soon be 60. I now sleep all night long and awake refreshed and have absolutely no need for coffee to get me perking. I used to require 2 cups every morning to feel alive. When I first learned about The Hallelujah Diet, I had been praying for God to show me how to live a healthier lifestyle, and that is when my friend Rhonda introduced me to The Hallelujah Diet. I am journaling daily my experience on The Hallelujah Diet and Lifestyle and plan to write about it in the near future…”
Final Thoughts
Psoriatic arthritis is a challenging condition, but with the right combination of treatments and lifestyle changes, it’s possible to not only manage symptoms, but to reverse the disease process and be free of the ravages of arthritis. While conventional treatments can provide relief, a natural approach that includes an excellent anti-inflammatory plant-based diet, exercise, stress management, sleep, and dietary supplements can support your journey to better health.
