Does psoriatic arthritis affect the achilles tendon
Does psoriatic arthritis affect the achilles tendon Psoriatic arthritis is a chronic autoimmune condition that affects the joints and connective tissues, often causing pain, swelling, and stiffness. It is closely associated with psoriasis, a skin disorder characterized by red, scaly patches. While psoriatic arthritis can involve any joints in the body, certain areas are more commonly affected, including the fingers, toes, knees, and lower back. However, its impact on tendons and their attachments is also significant and sometimes overlooked.
One of the notable features of psoriatic arthritis is its ability to cause enthesitis, which is inflammation at the sites where tendons or ligaments attach to the bone. The Achilles tendon, which connects the calf muscles to the heel bone, is a prime site for enthesitis in people with psoriatic arthritis. When the Achilles tendon becomes inflamed, it can lead to pain, tenderness, and swelling at the back of the heel, often worsening with activity or prolonged walking. Does psoriatic arthritis affect the achilles tendon
The relationship between psoriatic arthritis and the Achilles tendon is complex. Enthesitis at the Achilles insertion is a hallmark feature of psoriatic arthritis, suggesting that the disease process can directly involve this tendon. Inflammation here can lead to thickening of the tendon, localized pain, and even the development of heel spurs or calcifications. This condition is sometimes misdiagnosed as Achilles tendinitis, but in psoriatic arthritis, the inflammation tends to be more persistent and may be accompanied by other signs of joint involvement or skin symptoms.
The severity and extent of Achilles tendon involvement can vary widely among patients. Some may experience mild discomfort that responds well to conservative treatments, such as rest, anti-inflammatory medications, and physical therapy. Others may develop more significant problems, including partial tears or tendinosis, which might require more aggressive interventions like corticosteroid injections or even surgery in rare cases. Does psoriatic arthritis affect the achilles tendon
Does psoriatic arthritis affect the achilles tendon Early diagnosis and appropriate management are crucial to preventing long-term damage. Rheumatologists often use a combination of clinical examination, imaging techniques such as ultrasound or MRI, and laboratory tests to confirm enthesitis and differentiate it from other causes of heel pain. Treatment strategies generally aim to control the underlying psoriatic disease as well as alleviate local symptoms. Disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drugs (DMARDs), biologic therapies, and NSAIDs are commonly prescribed to reduce inflammation and prevent joint and tendon damage.
In addition to medication, lifestyle modifications can be beneficial. Regular stretching, low-impact exercises, and proper footwear can help reduce stress on the Achilles tendon. In some cases, orthotic devices or heel lifts are recommended to offload the affected area, providing relief and preventing further inflammation. Does psoriatic arthritis affect the achilles tendon
Does psoriatic arthritis affect the achilles tendon In summary, psoriatic arthritis can significantly affect the Achilles tendon, primarily through enthesitis at the tendon’s insertion point. Recognizing this involvement is vital for comprehensive management of the disease, as untreated inflammation can lead to chronic pain, deformity, and functional impairment. Patients experiencing persistent heel pain, especially those with known psoriasis or psoriatic arthritis, should seek medical evaluation to ensure timely diagnosis and appropriate care.
