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Can an injury (deep cut) to cartilage or a joint, causing severe cellulitis, be the onset of psoriatic arthritis?

A MyPsoriasisTeam Member asked a question 💭
Green Bay, WI

I'm 56 and have had mild psoriasis. I've never been to a doctor for it because it's been so mild. After this seemingly small injury, I am in the most horrific pain. I was diagnosed with psoriatic arthritis.

August 14
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Reactions
A MyPsoriasisTeam Member

My heart goes out to you. I've had psoriasis since 1962, psoriatic spondylitis since 2000.

August 17
MyPsoriasisTeam

What a difficult and painful experience — and what a shock to go from mild psoriasis to a psoriatic arthritis (PsA) diagnosis after an injury. To answer directly: yes, a physical injury can absolutely trigger the onset of psoriatic arthritis.

Researchers believe that environmental factors — including physical trauma — can Show Full Answer

What a difficult and painful experience — and what a shock to go from mild psoriasis to a psoriatic arthritis (PsA) diagnosis after an injury. To answer directly: yes, a physical injury can absolutely trigger the onset of psoriatic arthritis.

Researchers believe that environmental factors — including physical trauma — can set off an immune response that triggers PsA in people who are already genetically predisposed. Having psoriasis, even mild psoriasis, is the primary risk factor for developing PsA. It's actually more common than many people realize. About 30% of people with psoriasis eventually develop PsA, and around 70% of those people had skin symptoms first — just like you did.

The pain you're experiencing makes complete sense given what PsA does to the body. It causes inflammation in the joints, tendons, and ligaments, which can be genuinely debilitating. The most important thing right now is that you're getting treatment as soon as possible. Here's why timing really matters:

- A treatment delay of even six months can result in joint erosion and lasting limitations in movement
- Early treatment with options like biologics can significantly reduce inflammation and improve both pain and mobility
- A rheumatologist (joint specialist) working alongside your dermatologist can help find the best treatment plan for you

You're not alone in this, and the good news is there are very effective treatments available today. Please don't wait on getting that care — your joints will thank you.

August 14
A MyPsoriasisTeam Member

Thank you for the responses. I am so grateful. I don't feel so alone in this. Doctors don't always have an answer because this disease is a mystery. Thank you, thank you for sharing. 🤗

August 24
A MyPsoriasisTeam Member

Good question Constance....... I have had odd experiences with cuts n rubs not to mention some unmentionable adverse reactions to herbal creams that claim to fix it. Not sure what to make of it-we're all in the same boat I guess.
FYI: I recently got this long scratch across a patch of mine while playing ball--didn't do a thing... I was surprised yet grateful there was no reaction.🤷‍♂️
I know of cellulitis but Im more familiar with the koebner phenomenon.

August 17
A MyPsoriasisTeam Member

Yes a bleeding cut or otherwise can invite psoriasis.

August 15

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