Psoriatic arthritis (PsA) cannot be fully prevented, but you can reduce flare-ups and improve overall well-being through healthy lifestyle habits. These include maintaining a healthy weight, quitting smoking, and effectively managing stress.

Who Is Most At Risk?

Researchers do not yet know the exact cause of psoriatic arthritis, but both genetic and environmental factors are believed to play roles. Most people with PsA first develop psoriasis before receiving their arthritis diagnosis.

People with psoriasis or a family history of PsA are at greater risk of developing the condition. You may also be more likely to develop PsA if you:

  • Are between 30 and 50 years old

  • Have obesity

  • Have had infections or injuries affecting your skin or joints

  • Consume alcohol or use tobacco

Genetics

About one-third to one-half of people with psoriatic arthritis have a close relative—such as a parent or sibling—who also has the condition.

Some genes may raise your risk, especially the human leukocyte antigen (HLA) genes, which help your immune system identify healthy versus harmful cells. The HLA-B27 allele is the most commonly linked to PsA.

Having these genes does not mean you will definitely develop PsA, but when combined with environmental triggers, your risk increases.

How Can You Reduce Your Risk?

Although PsA cannot be completely prevented, you can lower your risk or delay its onset by making mindful lifestyle changes—especially if you already have psoriasis.

Maintain A Healthy Weight

Obesity can raise your risk of developing PsA and worsen flare-ups. This may be due to higher levels of inflammatory proteins (cytokines) found in people with obesity.

To maintain a healthy weight, focus on nutritious meals and regular physical activity. Weight management can help reduce inflammation and improve your body’s immune balance.

Note: Weight loss should always be done safely and under medical supervision.

Exercise

Regular exercise supports joint flexibility, reduces inflammation, and boosts heart health and mood. It can also lessen fatigue and pain related to PsA.

Try low-impact exercises such as:

  • Walking

  • Biking

  • Swimming

  • Water aerobics

  • Yoga

  • Tai chi

Manage Stress

Chronic stress can trigger or worsen PsA flares. While stress cannot always be avoided, you can practice stress management techniques such as:

  • Taking breaks from stressful tasks

  • Moving your body regularly

  • Getting adequate sleep

  • Practicing yoga, meditation, or deep breathing

  • Staying connected to hobbies you enjoy

  • Limiting alcohol consumption

  • Eating nutritious meals

  • Talking openly with loved ones or a therapist

Follow Your Psoriasis Treatment Plan

If you have psoriasis, following your treatment plan is essential for reducing your PsA risk. Regular check-ins with your healthcare provider help monitor changes in symptoms and prevent complications.

Treatments may include topical medications, light therapy, systemic drugs, or lifestyle changes depending on the severity of psoriasis. Managing skin inflammation early can delay the onset of PsA.

Discuss With Your Healthcare Provider

If you have psoriasis or a family history of psoriatic arthritis, talk to your healthcare provider about your risk. Early detection is key to preventing joint damage.

Report these symptoms to your doctor if they appear:

  • Pain, stiffness, or swelling in joints

  • Red or warm joints

  • Tender fingers or toes (sausage-like swelling)

  • Nail changes such as pitting or separation from the nail bed

  • Lower back or tailbone pain

A rheumatologist (joint specialist) and dermatologist (skin specialist) may collaborate to confirm diagnosis and rule out other conditions.