Managing Psoriatic Arthritis in the Workplace: Your 9-to-5 Guide

Managing PsA at work

Here are some strategies for managing PsA on the job.

Talk with your boss about reasonable accommodations

The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) requires employers with 15 or more employees to provide reasonable accommodations to workers with disabilities.

Schedule a time to speak with your boss about how PsA affects your work — and accommodations that may help you manage the condition while excelling at your job.

For example, consider requesting changes to your schedule, workspace, or assigned duties to accommodate your needs and limitations.

Adjust your desk set-up to be more ergonomic

If you work at a desk, adjusting the position of your computer screen, chair, keyboard, mouse, and other tools can help promote good posture and reduce strain on your joints.

Ideally, your eyes should be level with the top of your monitor, your back should be straight, and your shoulders should be relaxed while working.

Consider asking your employer for an adjustable chair with good lumbar support, armrests, and a headrest.

Use assistive devices and tools

Various tools are available to help people with arthritis manage daily activities.

Consider asking your doctor for a referral to an occupational therapist who can recommend assistive devices and tools for work.

For example, they might encourage you to use a more ergonomic keyboard and mouse, a hands-free phone headset, or a long-handled gripping tool. They might advise you to wear a splint or brace to support your joints at work.

Stop and stretch regularly

Sitting or standing in the same position for too long can strain your joints.

So can performing repetitive motions.

Make a conscious effort to regularly adjust your position at work and take short breaks to move around and stretch. Consider setting a timer on your phone or computer to remind you to take regular breaks.

Go for a walk at lunch

Regular exercise can help limit stress, increase flexibility, and strengthen your muscles. It also lowers your risk of chronic health conditions that are more common in people with PsA, such as depression, heart disease, and type 2 diabetes.

Even a short walk around the block on your lunch break may benefit your mental and physical well-being. The Arthritis Foundation recommends about 30 minutes of cardio on most days and weight training at least two times per week.

Pack a lunch with PsA-friendly foods

Although no food can cure PsA, eating a well-balanced diet may help reduce inflammation, prevent weight gain, and promote good overall health.

According to the Arthritis Foundation, an anti-inflammatory or Mediterranean-style diet may help improve symptoms.

Try to eat a wide variety of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, legumes, and lean proteins. Limit saturated fats, trans fats, and added sugars, as well as any foods that trigger your symptoms.

Set a timer to take your meds

Taking your prescribed medication is important for easing symptoms, preventing flares, and lowering your risk of complications from PsA.

If you forget to take medication, consider scheduling reminders on your phone, your computer, or in your agenda. This can help you stay on top of your treatment plan, even when work gets busy.

Takeaway

PsA can cause pain and stiffness that may make working more difficult. You may also find that you take more time off work to go to the doctor or rest during a flare up.

Though currently no cure exists, there are things you can do to help manage your symptoms. This includes reasonable adjustments, taking regular breaks, and making sure to stretch or move about.

Following the advice of your doctor can also ensure you are doing everything you can.