Stretching exercises are a great way to alleviate the symptoms of psoriatic arthritis, an autoimmune arthritis that can affect various organs in the body. Psoriatic arthritis often manifests as skin lesions, such as a red, scaly rash on areas like the elbows, knees, ankles, hands, and feet. However, stretching exercises can help improve strength, endurance, and flexibility in these areas and reduce pain and stiffness caused by the condition.
Specific stretching exercises target areas commonly affected by psoriatic arthritis such as the hands, arms, neck, back and feet. Stretching the fingers and hands can help reduce pain and swelling in those areas while stretching the forearms and elbows can improve flexibility in those joints. Neck stretches can also help alleviate tension in neck muscles.
Other recommended stretches for individuals with psoriatic arthritis include those for the back and feet. By incorporating regular stretching exercises into their routine, individuals with psoriatic arthritis can help improve their joint flexibility and overall well-being.
It is important for patients to consult with their healthcare provider or a fitness trainer to determine the most appropriate exercises and frequency based on their individual condition and response to treatment. Regular stretching combined with medication or other treatments prescribed by a healthcare provider can provide significant relief from symptoms of psoriatic arthritis.