Psoriatic arthritis presents with joint pain and stiffness that many people notice most clearly after waking or following long periods of rest. The condition often starts subtly and can progress over time, with discomfort emerging in the hands, wrists, elbows, knees, and the spine. Fatigue and a general sense of being unwell frequently accompany the pain, reducing energy for daily tasks. In many patients, skin patches of psoriasis and changes in the nails appear alongside joint symptoms, creating a recognizable pattern doctors watch for. This linked presentation—skin, nails, and joints affected in concert—helps clinicians identify psoriatic arthritis early and tailor care to the person’s overall health needs.
