Both men and women who suffer from psoriasis usually develop psoriatic arthritis within 10 years from their psoriasis diagnosis. Caucasians are more likely to develop psoriatic arthritis than African or Asian Americans. While it can affect people of all ages, psoriatic arthritis typically occurs between the ages of 30 and 55.

There are five patterns in which psoriatic arthritis typically occurs. These include:

* Pain in joints on one side of your body
* Pain in joints on both sides of your body
* Pain in finger joints
* Pain in the spine
* Destructive arthritis

Obtaining a diagnosis of psoriatic arthritis requires a battery of tests including:

* X-rays -- helps to pinpoint changes in the joints
* Joint fluid test -- analyzes acid crystals in joint fluid
* Sed rate -- a blood test to check erythrocyte sedimentation rate, which determines the extent of inflammation
* Rheumatoid factor (RF) -- a blood test to determine if RF is present

At this time, the cause of psoriatic arthritis is unknown. However, researchers believe that genetic, environmental and immunologic factors play a role. There is no cure for psoriasis or psoriatic arthritis, but there are things you can do and medicines you can take to lessen your pain and slow down its progression.

Developing an arthritis exercise program that includes gentle stretching and resistance exercises may help to ease pain, decrease inflammation, and slow down the progression of psoriatic psoriasis. It's best to consult with your healthcare practitioner prior to embarking on an exercise program.

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