Psoriatic Arthritis: Debunking the myths

You may have seen a lot in the news and on TV recently about Adam Thomas, an actor who has been speaking openly about his experience with psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis (PsA).

Here are some myths you may have heard about psoriatic arthritis, and what the truth really is:

Myth: ‘Psoriasis is just a skin condition; it can’t impact your daily movement’

Fact: One in five people with psoriasis also have psoriatic arthritis, an inflammatory arthritis associated with psoriasis. It affects the joints, as well as areas where tendons join to bone (such as the heel and lower back), and can cause pain, stiffness, swelling and fatigue. Psoriatic arthritis is classed as an invisible condition, meaning that it’s not always obvious that someone is living with it, but that doesn’t make it any less real.

Myth: ‘Psoriatic arthritis is just the same as normal arthritis’

Fact: As an ‘inflammatory arthritis’, psoriatic arthritis is caused by inflammation in the affected joint, instead of just wear and tear of the joint. Unlike rheumatoid arthritis, there is no blood test available to specifically identify psoriatic arthritis, which can make it difficult to diagnose. No two people experience PsA the same way, and symptoms can come and go and range from mild to severe. From joint pain and inflammation to overwhelming fatigue, it can impact daily life in ways many people don’t see or understand.

Myth: ‘Young people can’t have arthritis’

Fact: There is a misconception that arthritis only impacts older people – this is not true. It can occur at any age, although it is most common in the first 10 years of being diagnosed with psoriasis, or between the ages of 30-50.

Myth: ‘Psoriatic arthritis causes fatigue – but that’s just the same as being tired’

Fact: Fatigue is more than being tired, it can be overwhelming and unpredictable. It can impact all aspects of someone’s life, from movement and energy, to work, sleep and mental health. Some treatments used for psoriatic arthritis, like immunosuppressants, can also cause fatigue and may leave people feeling run down or unwell.

Find out more

We’re grateful to Adam for helping to raise important awareness of what living with psoriatic arthritis can mean day to day. More information on psoriatic arthritis is available on our website, in our leaflets and information sheets, of by reaching out via our helpline and forums.