Psoriatic arthritis and lower-back pain

Psoriatic arthritis may affect joints between the spine and pelvis or other spinal structures. Pain can feel deep in the lower back or buttocks, with stiffness after sleep or sitting that eases as you move. Symptoms may alternate sides and can occur with swollen peripheral joints, heel pain or psoriasis. Back pain has many causes, so this pattern is a clue for assessment rather than a diagnosis. Learn about [Psoriatic Arthritis](/conditions/psoriatic-arthritis/), [Joint Pain](/symptoms/joint-pain/) and [Morning Joint Stiffness](/symptoms/morning-joint-stiffness/).

Record when stiffness starts, how long it lasts, whether movement changes it and whether you have skin, nail or eye symptoms. Arrange a review if pain keeps returning, disrupts sleep or limits bending and walking. The clinician may examine your spine, hips and other joints and decide whether blood tests or imaging are useful. Staying gently active is often more helpful than prolonged bed rest; a physiotherapist can adapt mobility, posture and strengthening work. Discuss [Physiotherapy](/treatments/physiotherapy-and-rehabilitation/physiotherapy/) and [Anti-Inflammatory Medication](/treatments/non-surgical-orthopedics/anti-inflammatory-medication/) with your care team.

Seek immediate assessment for new loss of bladder or bowel control, numbness around the groin, significant leg weakness or rapidly worsening back pain after an injury. Urgent help is also needed with fever and severe illness. For ongoing morning stiffness, night pain or progressive limitation, arrange a timely clinical appointment.

Does my back-pain pattern suggest spinal inflammation? Should my hips and other joints be checked? Which movement routine is suitable? What symptoms would require urgent help, and when should we review progress?