Expert Psoriatic Arthritis Care at Olive Branch Rheumatology

Did you know that an estimated 30% of people with a diagnosis of psoriasis go on to develop psoriatic arthritis? This chronic condition can cause joint pain, swelling, and stiffness, significantly affecting daily life and function if left untreated. 

At Olive Branch Rheumatology, we specialize in addressing this complex condition with an expert and compassionate approach that takes your body’s specific disease involvement, your other medical conditions, and lifestyle into account. Led by Dr. Amy Zhang, MD, a highly qualified rheumatologist, our clinic offers a multifaceted and personalized treatment plan designed just for you to not only manage your symptoms but also improve your overall health and well-being. 

If you’re ready to start a path toward relief, we are here to guide you every step of the way.

Understanding Psoriatic Arthritis

Psoriatic arthritis is a form of chronic, inflammatory arthritis that affects some people with psoriatic disease, an autoimmune condition that can cause many symptoms affecting many organs. It can be associated with a rash called psoriasis which can result in red, scaly patches of the skin.  Psoriatic arthritis often, but not always, occurs in people who also have psoriasis. It can cause joint pain, swelling, and stiffness, resulting in joint damage if left untreated. When psoriatic arthritis becomes advanced from being left untreated, it can severely impact your quality of life. 

At Olive Branch Rheumatology, we are here to help you understand symptoms of psoriatic arthritis and the best treatment options for you.

Symptoms of Psoriatic Arthritis:

• Joint swelling, pain, or stiffness

• Fatigue and reduced mobility

• Swollen fingers or toes

• Tenderness in along the tendons 

• Tenderness in the areas where tendons attach to bones

• Skin and nail changes, such as pitted or ridged nails

• Eye pain, redness, or difficulty looking at lights

• Diarrhea or blood in your stools

Recognizing these symptoms early is vital for effective treatment. Dr. Amy Zhang, MD, an expert in psoriatic arthritis, helps identify these signs and works with you to improve your joint health and overall wellness.

Causes of Psoriatic Arthritis

Psoriatic Arthritis as an Autoimmune Disorder

Psoriatic arthritis is classified as an autoimmune condition. This means that the body’s immune system, which is designed to protect against harmful invaders like bacteria and viruses, mistakenly attacks healthy cells and tissues. This immune malfunction triggers inflammation, primarily in the joints and skin, causing the painful symptoms associated with the condition.

The Role of Genetic Factors

Studies show that genetic predisposition plays a significant role in developing psoriatic arthritis.  

Individuals with a family history of psoriasis or psoriatic arthritis are at a higher risk. If your close relatives have psoriasis or other autoimmune conditions, it may increase your overall likelihood of developing psoriatic arthritis.

The Impact of Environmental Triggers

Environmental factors also contribute to psoriatic arthritis. Certain triggers, such as infections, physical injury, medications, or severe stress can activate the immune response, especially in individuals who are already genetically predisposed to the condition. Addressing these triggers is important in managing and preventing flare-ups.

Expertise in Diagnosis and Treatment

At Olive Branch Rheumatology, Dr. Amy Zhang, MD leverages her deep understanding of these underlying causes to provide precise and personalized care. During her rheumatology training, Dr. Zhang did research and wrote literature for other rheumatologists about how to treat psoriatic arthritis with the goal of getting patients to the lowest disease activity possible.  With her extensive training and experience, she is well-versed in forming treatment plans for her patients that take into consideration their whole health picture and lifestyle, enabling effective treatment and long-term relief.

Personalized Psoriatic Arthritis Diagnosis

Understanding Each Patient’s Unique Experience

At Olive Branch Rheumatology, we recognize that no two patients with psoriatic arthritis are the same. Every patient’s symptoms, needs, and challenges are unique, and we make it our priority to understand your individual experience. 

This personalized approach ensures that your care is as effective and comprehensive as possible.

Thorough Diagnostic Methods

We utilize a range of diagnostic tools to provide accurate and reliable evaluations. These include detailed medical history assessments to identify patterns or underlying factors.

These factors include in-depth physical exams to evaluate joint health, and advanced imaging techniques, such as X-rays or MRIs, to detect inflammation or joint damage. These methods ensure every aspect of your condition is thoroughly examined.

Tailored Treatment by Dr. Zhang

Dr. Amy Zhang, MD takes the time to truly listen to her patients. She carefully reviews your symptoms, test results, and lifestyle to create a treatment plan specifically designed for your needs. With her expertise and dedication, you can feel confident knowing that your diagnosis and subsequent care are tailored uniquely to support your path to better health.

Comprehensive Psoriatic Arthritis Treatment

Once you have a clear diagnosis, the next step is a personalized treatment plan for psoriatic arthritis. Dr. Zhang blends cutting-edge Western medicine approaches with principles from Eastern medicine to provide relief from pain, reduce inflammation, and improve mobility. Treatment options may include:

• Medications to control immune responses and inflammation

• Joint care therapies to enhance flexibility and strength

• Lifestyle and dietary recommendations to manage your triggers

• Complementary therapies to improve overall well-being

We believe in empowering you with tools and knowledge to take an active role in managing your condition. Whether you’re newly diagnosed or seeking a second opinion, our goal is to help you regain control of your health.

Why Choose Olive Branch Rheumatology?

Expertise and Compassion

Dr. Amy Zhang is a highly qualified physician for the diagnosis and treatment of psoriatic arthritis, having trained at leading medical institutions and by the world’s most well-known experts in psoriatic arthritis.  Her expertise ensures that you’ll receive the highest standard of care. But what truly sets us apart is our compassionate and personalized approach: Dr. Zhang treats you as a whole person, not just a diagnosis.

Holistic Approach

Living with psoriatic arthritis can feel overwhelming, but you’re not alone. At Olive Branch Rheumatology, we utilize a comprehensive and integrative philosophy, treating the root causes of your condition while addressing your symptoms.

Care You Can Trust

Located conveniently in Wilmington, DE, our clinic provides easy access to top-tier rheumatology services. We’re here to guide you, every step of the way, with personalized care that focuses on your unique health goals.

Take Charge of Your Health Today

Finding relief from psoriatic arthritis starts with the right care. At Olive Branch Rheumatology, we go beyond treating symptoms—we empower you to regain control over your life with a personalized and targeted approach led by the expertise of Dr. Amy Zhang, MD. 

Schedule Your Appointment Today and experience the difference of compassionate, expert care designed just for you. Your path to wellness begins here!

Source: 

https://www.psoriasis.org/psoriasis-statistics