I have heard from doctors that regular exercise can help manage psoriasis and improve my mood. What types of exercise are best for people with psoriasis? For large lesions that are tight with poor sweating ability, what are the measures to prevent discomforts while exercising?
Physician Reply Reply from doctor: There is no restriction on exercising for psoriasis patients. However for those with psoriatic arthritis, advice for everyday care include:
1. Appropriate stretching movements to prevent joint stiffness and swelling, and help maintain muscle tone.
2. Apply heating pad to relieve stiff joints, and apply cold pack to relieve joint swelling.
3. Sufficient rest and sleep prevents joint inflammation.
4. Return to the doctor for regular follow-up
Dr. Yu-Hui Huang from Department of Dermatology of Chang Chung Memorial Hospital.
Is psoriasis curable?
Physician Reply Reply from a doctor: After appropriate treatment, most psoriasis patients can manage to control their symptoms and live a normal live, some even recover from the disease. Typically, doctors administer treatment most appropriate for the condition. Therefore, if you cooperate with the doctor’s prescription or treatment methods, and avoid triggers such as mental stress, feeling tired, and taking non-prescriptive drugs, your symptoms may be well managed and allow you to live a normal life.
Dr. Hsueh-Lun Chang from Department of Dermatology of Chang Chung Memorial Hospital.
I have psoriasis, and my joints have become very stiff in the recent cold weather. Has my condition progressed to psoriatic arthritis?
Physician Reply Reply from a doctor: Swollen and painful joints are possible symptoms of psoriatic arthritis. Please check if your joints are swollen, location of swelling, and whether you are showing signs of exhaustion or fever. Visit your doctor as soon as possible. Psoriatic arthritis is an irreversible condition, therefore it is important to prevent and access treatment early before joint damage occurs.
Dr. Hsiao-Ling Kuo from Department of Immunology & Rheumatology of Mackay Memorial Hospital, Hsinchu.