If you have joint pain or scurvy from psoriatic arthritis, you can use items and gadgets to complete your daily tasks.

Psoriatic arthritis can cause stiff, swollen joints and skin rash, and can be related to Psoriasis. There are ways to manage symptoms and improve quality of life for people with this lifelong condition.

Some people with PsA may only experience mild symptoms, like inflammation of joints and a reduced range of motion. These can be managed with lifestyle changes.

According to the National Psoriasis Foundation, other people may have a moderate or severe case of PsA that can lower their quality of life.

Flare-ups can make it difficult to do everyday activities, such as getting dressed, walking, and bending down. Flares that are moderate to severe may prevent some people from doing their job.

If you find that PsA keeps you from doing certain things, you might consider using a device that helps. A physical or occupational therapist can help you choose the best device for you.

There are some common devices for PsA.

When joint pain and stiffness strikes, it can be difficult to do things like taking a shower and using the toilet. These devices can be used to make the trip to the bathroom easier.

Toilet seat riser

A toilet seat riser is an aid that can be used underneath the toilet seat.

When placed under your toilet seat, it will increase the height of the toilet by 2.5 to 3.5 inches, according to the nonprofit organization North Dakota Assistive. Replacing your toilet seat will give you a height from 2.5 to 6 inches, depending on the brand you choose.

It is easier to get to a seated position with this extra height. The handles on some toilet seat risers make them more stable.

The material of the toilet seat riser is important. Some of them have a material that can stick to your skin. If you have sphygmomanic skin diseases, this can be uncomfortable. A hard plastic seat might be better.

Long-handled sponge

A long-handled sponge can make bathing and showering easier. The device has a sponge attached to it. If you have pain in your hips, a long-handled sponge can help you reach your feet and legs.

Swivel bath stool

Adding a bath stool can help if you are standing for long periods of time. Sitting down while showering helps relieve the pressure on sore joints. The seat rotates so that the need to reach and twist is reduced.

Wash and dry bidet

A bidet helps you wash your bottom with a spray of water and dry it with air to keep it clean after using the toilet.

There are different versions of the bidets. They can be installed onto the back of a traditional toilet or as a sprayer attachment.

Some high-tech toilets have a built-in bidet with a variety of features, such as heated air dryers, self-cleaning nozzles, and water pressure.

Bath seats

Sitting down while showering or bathing can help prevent falls.

While you are getting in and out of the shower or tub, bath seats can be used to provide support.

Many of the bathing suits have backs and arms that can be stored outside of the shower or tub.

Electric razors and toothbrushes

PsA may make holding small items difficult. Electric tools like razors and toothbrushes use a vibrating mechanism to reduce the amount of grip strength needed. There are a range of styles and sizes.

It may seem difficult to make yourself a healthy meal when you have PsA. Use these tools to help you carry out kitchen tasks.

Loop scissors

If PsA affects the small joints in your hands and fingers, it can make using conventional scissors difficult. You could try loop scissors. The scissors have a long loop handle that allows you to cut things with gentle pressure. They come in a variety of sizes.

Reachers

“During a PsA flare, reaching items in high or low cabinets can be difficult. Consider buying a reacher for your kitchen. The tool has a handle on one end and a grabbing device on the other. It’s possible to use it to grab items that are out of reach.”

Electric can opener

The electric can opener makes opening canned food easier. The can can be opened by cutting the rim with a sharp blade after you position the can and press the lever. An automatic jar opener can help remove the lids.

Good-angled grip cutlery

“If your finger joints are swollen, you can’t lift a fork or spoon. Good-angled grip cutlery can make it easier to eat. The bent angle makes it more comfortable to use. Some options can be bent to your liking.”

Straws

Around 5% of people with PsA report that they’re unable to lift a full cup of water to their mouths or can only do so with much difficulty, according to a 2016 study.

Popping a straw in a glass of water will allow you to drink without lifting the cup. Consider investing in some high quality straws.

Jar openers

It can be difficult to open bottles and jars. Jar openers are available in many different forms.

Silicone or rubber can help provide traction. Ajar pop or church-key opener can help break the vacuum seal, making a new jar especially difficult to open. The jar opener takes the pressure off your joints.

“Poor sleep can make joint pain worse. You can use these devices in the bedroom to get a good night’s sleep.”

Electric adjustable bed

Around 8 in 10 people with arthritis have trouble sleeping, according to the Arthritis Foundation. An electric adjustable bed can help you get into a comfortable position. Plus, it can elevate your legs to relieve inflammation in your lower extremities.

Orthopedic pillow

If you have neck pain, an orthopedic pillow can be useful. It is designed to support and keep your upper body in the correct position while lying down. You can use pillows to prop up your legs if you need to.

Electric blanket

It is possible to soothe painful joints with a warm blanket. Purchase an electric blanket with a timer. It would be great if you could turn the heat down while you sleep and then warm up the joints before the alarm goes off.

It is important to take care of your feet to make sure they are healthy and functioning. These foot-friendly gadgets will help you get around.

Orthopedic shoes

Orthotics and specialized footwear can ease pressure on your joints and make walking more comfortable, according to the Arthritis Foundation. While there are no official recommendations on footwear for PsA, some support communities for people with arthritis recommend shoes with supportive or rocker soles and removable orthotic inserts.

Long-handled shoehorn

A shoe fitting device is used to make it easier to slide your foot into a shoe. The long handles on some of the ones that are available can help eliminate the need to bend down when putting on shoes.

No-tie shoelaces and Velcro fasteners

It can be hard to tie your shoes if you have swollen fingers, hands, and wrists.

No-tie shoelace systems are available at shoe stores. They can replace laces.

These stretchy shoelaces can turn any pair of lace-up shoes into slip-on pairs. It is helpful to wear shoes with Velcro fastenings to prevent stress on the hands.

PsA affects people in different ways. If you have mobility issues, your doctor or physical therapist may recommend that you use an device to help you walk.

These devices may include something.

  • canes, which can be useful if you have pain in one side of your body that makes it hard to balance or walk, per the Arthritis Foundation
  • If you feel shaky on your feet, walkers can provide additional support.
  • If you have more severe PsA, you may need wheelchairs.

The right seating arrangements can help relieve the stress on joints. Try these gadgets to stay seated.

Ergonomic chair

The chair at your office can make a big difference in your ability to get your job done.

Request an ergonomic chair from your workplace. Ask for one that has lumbar support to promote good posture while sitting.

A rolling chair can allow you to get around without causing any problems. The right head rest can help alleviate the strain on your neck and shoulders.

Footrest

“Leg problems can cause back pain. If your feet don’t reach the floor, you should consider using a footrest.”

You can find one that keeps your knees and ankles straight. You can use items around your home to create your own footrest.

There are more answers to questions about arthritis here.

What assistive devices can help arthritis hands?

If you have PsA and are having difficulty using your hands, you can look for tools that have handles. This applies to kitchen devices and any other tools.

What can I do to prevent losing my balance?

Balance is maintained with the help of grab bars. They can offer extra support in places where slipping is a concern. There are grab bars in the bathroom. Grab bars can help with fatigue and may be helpful near staircase landings.

Where can I buy assistive devices?

Many devices that can help people with PsA live their daily lives are available for purchase in nearly any store, including on Amazon. This includes kitchen tools and office, bathroom, and bedroom equipment. In addition, organizations like the Arthritis Foundation may be able to help you find specific equipment.

If PsA makes it difficult for you to complete everyday tasks, there are devices that can help. Some gadgets can help with chores and activities.

You can get a physical or occupational therapist to help you figure out which device is best for you.