When is physiotherapy recommended for psoriatic arthritis?

Psoriatic arthritis can affect peripheral joints, the spine, tendons or areas where tendons attach to bone. A physiotherapist can check strength, joint movement, posture, balance and how symptoms affect work or self-care. The plan may use gentle mobility work, strengthening around affected joints, aerobic activity, splint or support advice, and pacing. It should be coordinated with the clinician managing inflammation, especially when a joint is hot or very swollen.

Request an assessment if pain, stiffness, reduced grip, foot discomfort or fatigue is changing how you move. Tell the physiotherapist about skin plaques, tender areas, eye symptoms, bowel symptoms and current medicines so exercises and hands-on techniques can be comfortable. Keep activity regular but flexible: shorten sessions during a flare and build back gradually as symptoms settle.

Arrange a clinical review if swelling persists, function is declining, or morning stiffness is becoming more limiting despite your plan. Seek urgent help for a painful red eye with light sensitivity or vision change, sudden severe illness, or a joint that becomes acutely very painful, hot and swollen.

Which joints should physiotherapy target first? How should I modify exercises during a flare? Do I need a hand, foot or spinal assessment? What symptoms mean my inflammation needs a treatment review?