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Is Popping Joints a Symptom of Psoriatic Arthritis?

Psoriatic arthritis is a condition characterized by skin lesions and joint pain. The condition ranges widely in severity from one individual to the next. Psoriatic arthritis is not curable, but it may be treated with medications. A possible symptom of psoriatic arthritis is popping joints; however, not all individuals with popping joints have psoriatic arthritis, and not all individuals with psoriatic arthritis have popping joints.

  1. Effects

    • Symptoms of psoriatic arthritis include joint pain and swelling. Also, the joints may feel warm when touched. Pain may affect the joints on either one or both sides of the body. Commonly affected joints include the fingers, wrists, ankles, knees and hips. Over time these joints may become damaged and may make popping noises intermittently. Symptoms of psoriasis include patches of dry, scaly skin.

    Joint Popping

    • Joints may make popping or other noises for several reasons, according to the Library of Congress: when gas bubbles form and then pop in the tissues of your joints, when the tendons and ligaments snap into place when the joint is moving from one position to another, and when damaged joints and cartilage rub together, as in people with joints damaged by psoriatic arthritis.

    Diagnosis

    • Multiple tests are needed to diagnose psoriatic arthritis, including X-rays, analysis of joint fluid and blood tests.

    Medical Treatment

    • Psoriatic arthritis is treated with over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medications and prescription corticosteroids, anti-rheumatic drugs and immunosuppressant agents. Treatment will not prevent joints from popping, but it will reduce pain and swelling.

    Self-Care

    • To reduce joint discomfort, exercise regularly and keep weight within healthy ranges. Cold and hot compresses may also reduce joint pain.

      Cracking or popping joints associated with psoriatic arthritis do not require treatment. According to MotherNature.com, joint noises are only cause for concern if you have recently been injured.

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