Psoriatic arthritis is an often debilitating condition that leads to joint pain, swelling, and stiffness. This arthritic condition is most often paired with psoriasis, a skin disease that is characterized by scaly, red, and irritated patches of skin. While dealing with psoriatic arthritis is never fun, there are steps that you can take to make life easier while minimizing the pain associated with this condition.

Outfit Your Home with Smart Features

You can take a lot of hassle out of everyday living by outfitting your home with a variety of smart features. Smart home technology is becoming more and more affordable, making it easier to equip your house with a myriad of tools to help you to perform functions without having to get up as often. Devices such as a smart thermostat and appliances will allow you to control many of your home functions from your smartphone or by using voice commands. For example, you will no longer have to get out of bed to turn off the light if it is connected to your smartphone. When added up, all of these features can make your life exponentially easier.

Make a Comfortable Workspace

If you work outside of the home, you may need to revamp your office space to make it more compliant with your needs. Ideas to consider for your workspace include sitting in an ergonomic office chair, trying a trackpad instead of a mouse, using a headset instead of having to hold a phone, and placing a footrest under your desk for added support for your feet. If your condition makes it too difficult to work, you can consider applying for disability pay.

Remodeling Your Bathroom

Using a bathroom can be a challenge for people with severe psoriatic arthritis. You can make this necessity easier by remodeling your bathroom to account for these limitations. Installing a toilet seat raiser is an easy fix to make going to the bathroom less painful. Most raisers will add five to six inches to the height of a standard toilet, making it more comfortable to sit and stand. A removable shower head will make it easier to clean your body in those hard to reach places. Other good additions to the bathroom include nonskid mats to help you to mitigate the risk of slipping in areas that potentially get wet as well as grab bars to help you to steady yourself.

Be Smart About Sleep

Your days will be so much more enjoyable if you rest comfortably at night. Many people with psoriatic arthritis find relief from discomfort by tucking a pillow under or between the knees. This will keep the spine stay aligned so that you do not experience as much stiffness in the morning. How you immediately start your day is also important. Before getting out of bed in the morning, try doing a few gentle stretches while still lying down. Once you have stretched out the body, slowly get up from the bed.

Choose the Right Medical Care Provider

One of the best things that you can do for your health is to choose the right medical care provider for your specific needs. When dealing with psoriatic arthritis, a trained rheumatologist will be able to provide the best care. It is important that you see a doctor who is equipped to handle this specific condition rather than a general care provider. An occupational therapist is also a good professional to consult about ways that you can help to manage your pain. Not only can they help you to learn how to manage everyday tasks, but they can also suggest alternate methods of doing things.

Ask for Help

Lastly, you should not be afraid to ask for help if you need it. Having a strong support system is crucial if you have psoriatic arthritis. Do not be shy about reaching out for assistance.

Rather than letting psoriatic arthritis control your life, you can be intentional about taking charge. Implementing a variety of lifestyle changes in order to relieve the pain will help you to make the most out of your days and live a more fulfilling life.