Psoriatic Arthritis Holiday Gift Guide

Psoriatic arthritis (PsA) is a type of arthritis that typically affects people with psoriasis. Psoriasis is a skin condition usually represented by red patches on the skin as well as silvery scales. Joint pain, stiffness, and swelling are the main symptoms of PsA.

While we don't know what the exact causes of PsA are, there are a few things that most people would agree are triggers for them. Triggers include, but are not limited to, stress, cold weather, and poor diet.

Having been diagnosed with PsA only a few years ago, it still kind of shocks me when the symptoms hit. And they hit the hardest in the winter months. My hands, knees, back, and feet ache. The cold weather is hard to bear. It takes a toll on my body and my emotional state.

What are some holiday gift ideas for someone with psoriatic arthritis?

I try to ask my family for arthritis-friendly gifts during the holiday season. If you're looking for a gift to give someone who is living with PsA, try giving them something that makes their lives a little easier.

Compression gloves (or socks)

I have been using compression gloves for a few years now and I'm a fan. These gloves usually slide on and are tight-fitting (compression). Sometimes they come with copper to reduce odor and sometimes they don't. I own a pair of both. I wear them to bed and when I'm typing on my computer. These are great little stocking stuffers or gifts. A decent pair will run you about $20.

Paraffin bath

This is on my Christmas list to Santa this year. A paraffin bath is a hot wax bath that covers and dries over your hands or feet. I've had them done at nail salons but you can purchase one for your home. The bath is really a heat therapy treatment that can help alleviate joint stiffness, relax muscles, and even help reduce inflammation of the joints. For about $30, I say it's worth it.

Heating blanket

Heating blankets are great. They keep you snug and cozy in the cold weather, and they warm up your joints. Most blankets come with a little remote so that you can control the temperature without having to get up. Heating blankets are nice gifts in general, but for someone with PsA, it could be just the extra bit of comfort they need this holiday season. You can buy one for around $30.

Electric kitchen tools

Have a chef in the family? Buy them an electric kitchen tool. I live by my electric can opener and mixer. Both make my life SO much easier when I'm in the kitchen. I haven't purchased a jar opener yet but if you know anyone who loves canned condiments, this is the gift for them. You can also buy non-electric items that are helpful like large grip utensils or an iPad or cookbook stand. Nothing says "I love your cooking" like a kitchen tool as a gift.

Aromatherapy diffuser

Aromatherapy is a great way to help reduce holiday stress and make your space smell better. I love lavender, eucalyptus, and jasmine for essential oil scents. Buy a diffuser (simple ones can cost as little as $8, more extravagant ones can cost upwards of $80) and some essential oils for relaxation. A great little gift for someone who needs to chill out.

Bathroom shower dispensers

For me, squeezing the shampoo and conditioner out of the bottle can be tough on my hands. I recently added a wall dispenser to my shower for my hair products and it has made all the difference. This is a great gift for someone with PsA, and maybe something they hadn't even thought of themselves!

Stocking stuffers

I love stocking stuffers. Who doesn't? Warm gloves and socks, Epsom or dead sea salts, soothing tea, an electric toothbrush or a massage gift certificate are all small, but thoughtful, items to gift this year.

The reason for the holiday season

The holidays can be stressful. And stress can lead to some serious pain, inside and out. When giving gifts this holiday season remember, it's the thought that counts. Sometimes the thought alone is enough to warm anyone's achy bones.