in the Workplace:
Your 9-to-5 Guide
Talk with your boss about reasonable accommodations
Adjust your desk set-up to be more ergonomic
Use assistive devices and tools
Stop and
stretch regularly
Go for a walk at lunch
Pack a lunch with PsA-friendly foods
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.
Set a timer
to take your meds
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.
Adjust your desk set-up
to be more ergonomic
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.
Use assistive devices and tools
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.
Stop and stretch regularly
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.
Go for a walk at lunch
Although no food can cure PsA, eating a well-balanced diet may help reduce inflammation, prevent weight gain, and promote good overall health. 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.
Pack a lunch with
PsA-friendly foods
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.
Set a timer to take your meds
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Psoriatic Arthritis
Managing
