Joint cartilage injuries and PsA
I was diagnosed with psoriatic arthritis about a year ago, but I've had joint problems for much longer. I've torn the rotator cuff in my shoulder, the meniscus in one knee, the TFCC in one wrist, and now might have a tear in my hip joint. I'm trying to understand if all these injuries are related to my inflammatory arthritis, or if it's due to my previous participation in sports (not so much the case these days). None of those injuries were from acute accidents—they all happened over time. I feel like the inflammation must have played some role, esp. with my hip, because I'm so much less active now. But it's frustrating because my doctors don't really have a good answer, and I'm scared of having more damage to cartilage and ligaments. Anyone have an experience like this?
Hi @lboisson. I am so glad you found this community and I hope you get lots of responses to your question. It is impossible to know for sure whether PsA or sports caused your injuries, but, most likely, it was a combination of both. What does your doctor think? You'll find many people in this community who have had knees and hips replaced due to PsA and/or have had rotator cuff surgery. Here is an article about PsA and how it affects the joints: https://psoriatic-arthritis.com/psa-symptoms/joint-pain-swollen-stiff. The good news is that there are several medications that can slow the progression of PsA and prevent further damage. Has your doctor prescribed anything for you? If so, does it seem to be helping? Since you are somewhat new to PsA, I thought you might also be interested in this article for people who are newly diagnosed: https://psoriatic-arthritis.com/living/dear-friend-newly-diagnosed. I hope this helps and that you develop no further damage, regardless of the cause. Thinking of you! - Lori (Team Member)
Hi Lori, thanks for the insight! I started Remicade and methotrexate around February of this year to help control the arthritis, and they're really starting to help with the pain and stiffness, though my symptoms aren't 100% gone. My doctor thinks the injuries may have been related to early PsA symptoms, but has also told me not to worry too much about continuing to injure myself. I'm still worried about it, though, since it seems to keep happening.
