On the Job With Psoriatic Arthritis: Disability and Accommodations

How to Work More Comfortably With Psoriatic Arthritis

While it depends on what kind of job you have and what the expectations are, these tips can help make your workday easier.

Stretch at Your Desk

Stretches help you stay limber and are easy to do in your chair. To stretch your hamstrings — the muscles on the backs of your thighs — sit at the edge of the chair, straighten one leg so that your heel is on the floor and toes are up, then bend forward at the hips; repeat with the other leg. To stretch your shoulders, bring one arm across your chest and push it toward your torso with the opposite hand; repeat with the other arm. Finally, to stretch your neck muscles, Crossman adds, slowly turn your head from side to side.

Cycling is a great low-impact exercise for people with psoriatic arthritis, Crossman notes, and an under-the-desk bike allows you to pedal while you work.

Fight Fatigue

A mid-afternoon slump can hit anyone, but it can be particularly troublesome when you have psoriatic arthritis. “Exercise releases endorphins, so if you find yourself getting tired during the day, take a break and go for a short walk and drink some water to rehydrate,” Crossman suggests.

If you’re up to it, she adds, swimming at lunchtime may help break up the day. Swimming, she says, is a “great way to increase cardiovascular endurance” without causing stress on the joints.

In general, “Keep active, keep moving,” Dr. Orbai advises. “Consider dividing your inactive or sitting time in chunks no longer than 45 minutes separated by active time that includes walking, stretching, or speaking to coworkers.”

Manage Stress

“Stress management is important,” Orbai explains. “Avoid getting stressed or becoming isolated as that only increases anxiety, depression, and stress, which could trigger a flare. Know yourself and learn to respond early to stress in ways that help you diffuse it.”

So when the boss is breathing down your neck, take a break to de-stress. A few minutes of mindfulness meditation can help. This relaxation technique uses deep breathing to clear your mind and calm racing thoughts.

Additional reporting by Brian P. Dunleavy.