Here are three strategies that can help make a difference in how you feel both physically and emotionally.

Taking a proactive role in the treatment of your psoriatic arthritis can help ease the severity of flares and improve your health overall. Here are three strategies that can help make a difference in how you feel both physically and emotionally:

1. Protect your skin

Psoriasis can make your skin extremely sensitive. Practicing proper skin care is essential to the management of psoriatic arthritis. Try to avoid using strongly scented soaps that may cause a reaction on your skin. Also beware of creams or soaps that contain high amounts of alcohol because it can irritate and dry out your skin. Instead, choose natural and gentle washes.

Keeping your skin moisturized may help reduce symptoms. Lotions containing aloe vera, jojoba, capsaicin or zinc pyrithione can help lubricate yourskin. Taking lukewarm oatmeal or Epsom salt baths may help to soothe skin irritation. Making a habit of moisturizing daily after showers, baths or swimming can help soften the skin and prevent outbreaks.

Cold, dry air can worsen symptoms; do your best to avoid it. Studies suggest that consistent, measured exposure to ultraviolet light may help ease psoriasis rashes. Intervals of natural sunlight can be beneficial, but it is important to avoid sunburn. Ask your doctor how much sun exposure may benefit you, and wear sunscreen if you’re outdoors more than that.

2. Integrate exercise

Exercising is a great way to reduce stress. In addition, physical activity maintains muscle strength and joint movement—two things that are essential to managing psoriatic arthritis. "You just don't want to overdo it," says Dr. Stephen Lindsey, head of rheumatology at the Ochsner Clinic Foundation Hospital.

Several types of exercises may be beneficial, depending on the severity of your psoriatic arthritis. For some, the pain is only in their hands or in knee joints. Your exercise regimen will depend on your symptoms.

Strength exercises are designed to increase muscle strength and flexibility. The stronger your muscles, the more stable your joints are. Free weights are a great form of strength training that can help support your joints.

Exercising in water is great because the water's buoyancy reduces the impact on joints. Fitness centers often have classes for people with arthritis or similar conditions. In addition, exercising in water can help improve cardiovascular fitness and balance.

3. Get some sleep

Fatigue is a very common symptom among patients with psoriatic arthritis. If fatigue affects you, some simple changes may help.

Be wary of caffeine, nicotine and alcohol before bed. Though having a cup of tea might be your bedtime routine, instead try decaffeinated drinks so that it's easier to fall asleep. Also, going to bed at the same time each night and waking up at the same time every morning can help regulate your sleep schedule and prevent fatigue during the day.

For more on psoriatic arthritis:

7 Tips to Better Manage Psoriatic Arthritis
Take Your Vitamins to Treat Psoriatic Arthritis
Should We Have More Screenings for Psoriatic Arthritis?