Does psoriatic arthritis cause morning joint stiffness?

Inflammation in psoriatic arthritis can make joints feel stiff after sleep or another period of rest. The sensation may affect hands, feet, knees, the spine, or the places where tendons attach. Some people also notice swelling, warmth, limited movement, lower-back discomfort, or a whole finger or toe becoming puffy. Stiffness that eases gradually with gentle movement can be clinically useful information, but it does not confirm one diagnosis.

Note the joints involved, when stiffness begins, how it changes as you move, and whether swelling or psoriasis appears at the same time. Gentle range-of-motion exercises, a warm shower, and pacing demanding tasks may make mornings easier for some people. Avoid forcing a painful joint. Make an appointment if stiffness keeps returning, restricts work or sleep, or comes with swollen joints, nail changes, or persistent tendon pain. A clinician can combine your history with an examination and selected tests.

Seek urgent care if a joint becomes suddenly hot, intensely painful, and swollen, particularly with fever or chills. A painful red eye, light sensitivity, or new blurred vision also needs prompt medical attention. Contact a clinician soon for progressive stiffness, new weakness, or symptoms that are steadily affecting several joints.

Does my stiffness pattern suggest inflammation or another cause? Should my skin and nails, eyes, or spine be assessed too? Which activities and medicines are suitable while the cause is being investigated?