Psoriatic Arthritis
Psoriasis can also affect the joints and cause inflammatory changes in these joints. This is then called psoriatic arthritis. In principle, all joints can be affected, but it is usually the end and middle joints of the hands and feet, as well as knee or ankle joints and joints of the spine.
In contrast to rheumatoid arthritis, the affection is usually asymmetrical, i.e. the joint affection is not equally pronounced on both sides of the body. Typically, all joints of a single finger are affected (dactylitis, “attack in the beam”). In the long run, a significant deformation of the joints can occur, which is accompanied by pain and loss of function.
Alcohol, overweight and smoking have a negative influence on psoriatic arthritis. With treatment of the underlying disease, the intensity and frequency of the joint complaints usually also decreases. Anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and methotrexate are used, for example.
Overload/Misload
In general, joint pain can always be caused by mere overloading or incorrect loading. Throwing sports and tennis, golf and field hockey place particular stress on the shoulder, arm and wrist joints, while sports with a high proportion of running, as well as start and stop movements, place particular strain on the knee and ankle joints. Sports accidents can cause damage to the ligaments, bony structures and cartilage parts of the joints, which can result in severe complaints. Of course, other traumas can also cause the pain.
Summary
Overall, pain in joints can have many different causes, as many diseases can manifest themselves through such symptoms. If the symptoms persist or recur, it is always advisable to consult a doctor and have the cause of the pain clarified.
