10 Tips for Parents With Psoriatic Arthritis

Parenting is hard work, even if you’re in tip-top shape. Psoriatic arthritis can make it a lot harder, since the pain, stiffness, and fatigue associated with this progressive disease can slow you down. It can be hard to prioritize yourself with kids running around, but taking care of your body and mind will help you take better care of your children as well.

Exercise serves more than one purpose. For one thing, it can help you blow off steam, which can reduce your stress levels. Since stress is a common trigger for psoriatic arthritis flare-ups, this may be a big benefit for you. Secondly, working out can help you maintain a healthy weight. Overweight people may find that losing a few pounds can reduce the wear and tear on their already sore joints. Lastly, exercise can help boost your energy levels so you feel more capable of handling your daily routine. Exercising with psoriatic arthritis might seem intimidating or painful, but there are many activities out there that can give you a cardio boost and build muscle without going overboard. Talk to your doctor about safe exercises that might be a good option for you.

Fatigue is a very common companion to psoriatic arthritis, and certain medications, like methotrexate, can compound the problem. Sometimes, you might try to soldier though the fatigue, only to crash and burn. But raising kids is a marathon, not a sprint. Try to give yourself permission to get the rest you need. Don’t drink too much caffeine, which can interfere with your sleep cycle, and invest in a quality mattress if you’re waking up achy and sore. If you’re having trouble sleeping at night, don’t hesitate to reach out to your doctor to find some solutions.

When psoriatic arthritis isn’t treated effectively or treatment is delayed, it can lead to permanent joint damage, which you definitely want to avoid. Plus, taking your medication as prescribed will help reduce symptoms so you’re better able to go about your day-to-day life. Talk to your doctor if you believe your current medication isn’t working well enough, or if you can’t tolerate the side effects–there are lots of options out there, so it’s likely you can find one that fits your needs.

Being mindful simply means taking time to slow down and notice your environment, your body, and your emotions. You can practice mindfulness meditation or any other type of meditation that helps you focus on yourself. Even taking 30 seconds to sit and breathe amidst the chaos can help. Whatever keeps your stress levels at a manageable level can make you feel better–and more capable of handling the stresses of parenting.

Every parent, even if they don’t live with a chronic illness, needs assistance sometimes. Remember, it takes a village! As much as you might not like it, it’s important to ask for help when you need it. If you’re burned out or struggling, there’s no reason to resist leaning on loved ones. Whether you’re a single parent or parenting with a spouse or partner, identify someone you can turn to in a time of need, and don’t be afraid to ask for their support.

Depending on the age of your children, you may want to talk to them about your health. Acknowledge you have a health condition that can make you feel sore and tired. Explain that sometimes you need to take it easy–and ask them for their help. And of course, let them know they can always ask you any questions.

You have a lot on your plate, figuratively speaking, with psoriatic arthritis and a family. To help you be the best parent–and person–you can be, make sure the food on your literal plate is nutritious. Limit your consumption of processed foods and products high in refined sugar. Instead, heap your plate full of vegetables, fruits, beans, nuts and legumes, lean meats, and fish that’s rich in omega-3 fatty acids. Also, certain types of foods, like fatty red meats, may cause an inflammatory response in some people with psoriatic arthritis. If certain foods trigger a flare-up for you, be sure to avoid them. 

Psoriatic arthritis can worsen over time. You can also develop other health conditions with the potential to compromise your energy levels. That’s why medical experts recommend you undergo regular screenings for diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disease and other health conditions, along with checking in regularly with your doctor. Remember: prevention is the best medicine!

Any parent who spends a lot of time with their children can attest to the benefits of wearing comfortable clothing. But parents with psoriatic arthritis should especially embrace the comfy wardrobe. Tight clothes (and shoes) can put additional pressure or strain on your joints, so opt for something looser fitting, in fabrics that won’t irritate your skin. Certain brands carry adaptive clothing, like sweaters with magnetic buttons or pants with hidden velcro instead of zippers. Research ways these outfits can make life easier for you–and take advantage of them.

You wouldn’t hesitate to use an ergonomic chair or desk in the office, right? Well, parenting is a job that might require certain gear, too. Do you find that specific gadgets or assistive devices help you out? Embrace them! Open cans with an automatic can opener so you don’t put any additional strain on your wrists and hands when making dinner. Use a step stool to help you fetch items on high shelves. And if you need to sit down while you’re spending time with your children, pull up a stool or chair if that helps you be more comfortable.