Each year, October 19 marks Psoriatic Arthritis Awareness Day, a time to recognize the millions of individuals living with this chronic autoimmune condition and to highlight advances in treatment and care. Psoriatic arthritis (PsA) affects up to 30% of people with psoriasis, causing joint pain, stiffness, swelling, and fatigue that can significantly impact quality of life.
At Pacific Arthritis, our mission is to make expert rheumatologic care accessible to every patient—no matter where they are. Through telemedicine services, we empower patients with psoriatic arthritis to receive high-quality, personalized care from the comfort of their homes, helping them manage symptoms effectively and stay connected with their healthcare team year-round.
In recognition of Psoriatic Arthritis Awareness Day, we’re exploring what PsA is, how it affects joint health, and how telemedicine can provide continuous, convenient relief and support.
Understanding Psoriatic Arthritis
Psoriatic arthritis is a type of inflammatory arthritis that occurs in some people with psoriasis, a skin condition characterized by red, scaly patches. It is an autoimmune disease, meaning the immune system mistakenly attacks healthy tissue—specifically the joints and, sometimes, the skin and tendons.
Common Symptoms Include:
- Joint pain and stiffness, especially in the morning or after inactivity
- Swelling in fingers or toes (known as dactylitis or “sausage digits”)
- Fatigue and general malaise
- Nail changes, such as pitting or separation from the nail bed
- Lower back pain (in cases where the spine is affected)
Psoriatic arthritis can range from mild to severe. Without proper management, it may lead to permanent joint damage and loss of mobility. Early diagnosis and treatment by a rheumatologist are crucial to slowing disease progression and maintaining joint health.
The Connection Between Skin and Joint Health
Because PsA is closely linked to psoriasis, it often begins in people who already experience skin symptoms. However, some individuals develop joint symptoms first, making diagnosis more complex.
The inflammation that drives PsA doesn’t only affect joints—it’s systemic, meaning it can impact other organs and systems in the body. This makes ongoing care and monitoring essential to prevent complications.
Managing Psoriatic Arthritis with Modern Treatment
While there is currently no cure for psoriatic arthritis, today’s treatments can dramatically improve symptoms, function, and quality of life. The goals of PsA management are to:
- Control inflammation
- Reduce pain and stiffness
- Prevent or slow joint damage
- Improve mobility and flexibility
- Support emotional well-being and confidence
Treatment options may include:
- Medications such as NSAIDs, DMARDs, and biologics
- Infusion therapy for patients needing long-term control of inflammation
- Ultrasound-guided injections for targeted joint pain relief
- Lifestyle strategies such as exercise, nutrition, and stress management
At Pacific Arthritis, we combine evidence-based care with personalized guidance—now made even more convenient through telemedicine.
The Power of Telemedicine for Psoriatic Arthritis
Living with psoriatic arthritis often means managing a long-term condition that requires frequent follow-ups, medication adjustments, and symptom monitoring. That’s where telemedicine can be a game-changer.
How Telemedicine Helps Patients with PsA
1. Easy Access to Specialists
Patients no longer need to drive long distances or rearrange their schedules for routine appointments. With telemedicine, you can meet virtually with a Pacific Arthritis rheumatologist from your home, workplace, or while traveling.
2. Real-Time Support During Flares
Flare-ups can happen unexpectedly. Telemedicine allows for prompt communication with your provider to discuss symptoms, adjust treatment, and get relief faster—without waiting weeks for an in-person visit.
3. Medication Monitoring
PsA treatments, particularly biologics and infusion therapies, often require ongoing monitoring. Through virtual appointments, patients can review lab results, discuss side effects, and track progress efficiently.
4. Continuity of Care
PsA management is most effective when patients maintain consistent contact with their rheumatologist. Telemedicine ensures that your care remains uninterrupted, even if life’s responsibilities or travel make in-person visits difficult.
5. Enhanced Quality of Life
By removing the barriers of time and travel, telemedicine empowers patients to stay proactive in their care while maintaining work, family, and lifestyle balance.
Integrating Telemedicine with Other Treatment Options
Telemedicine works best as part of a comprehensive care plan. At Pacific Arthritis, we combine virtual consultations with advanced treatments such as:
- Infusion Therapy: Administered at our Los Angeles and Santa Monica offices, this treatment helps manage inflammation in patients with moderate to severe PsA.
- Ultrasound-Guided Injections: Targeted injections reduce joint pain and swelling with precision imaging technology.
- Patient Education: Telehealth visits provide opportunities to review self-care practices, joint-friendly exercises, and stress-reduction techniques.
This hybrid approach—combining in-person and virtual care—ensures that every patient receives the right treatment, at the right time, in the most convenient way possible.
Psoriatic Arthritis and Emotional Health
Living with a chronic illness can take a toll on mental health. The unpredictability of flares, fatigue, and visible symptoms can lead to frustration or anxiety. Through telemedicine, patients can stay connected not only with their rheumatologist but also with support networks and resources for emotional well-being.
Regular check-ins help patients feel supported, empowered, and informed—a vital part of comprehensive PsA care.
Raising Awareness This October 19
Psoriatic Arthritis Awareness Day is more than an event—it’s an opportunity to amplify understanding, compassion, and hope. Many people still mistake psoriatic arthritis for simple joint pain or fail to connect it with psoriasis. By spreading awareness, we help others recognize the signs early, seek expert care, and explore advanced treatments like infusion therapy and telemedicine.
At Pacific Arthritis, we encourage everyone—patients, families, and caregivers—to take part in this awareness movement by sharing information, supporting loved ones, and prioritizing regular rheumatologic care.
Conclusion
Psoriatic Arthritis Awareness Day (October 19) reminds us that while PsA is a lifelong condition, it can be managed successfully with early diagnosis, consistent treatment, and ongoing support. Telemedicine has revolutionized how patients access care, providing flexibility and immediate connection to expert guidance whenever it’s needed most.
At Pacific Arthritis, our team of rheumatologists is dedicated to helping patients find long-term relief and better joint health through comprehensive care—including telemedicine, infusion therapy, and ultrasound-guided injections.
We proudly serve patients throughout Los Angeles and Santa Monica and offer virtual visits across California. To learn more or schedule a telemedicine consultation, call us at (310) 297-9221 today.
This October, let’s raise awareness, empower patients, and celebrate progress in psoriatic arthritis care; one virtual visit at a time.
