Psoriasis is a chronic skin disease that can occur at any age and is characterized by a thick, rough buildup of the outer layer of skin. Psoriasis is treated primarily by topical creams or ointments, but regular exercise and reducing your stress can help you manage your condition.
About
The American Academy of Family Physicians reports that psoriasis is an autoimmune disease, meaning that some of your body's cells mistakenly attack your skin cells. This leads to an increased production of skin cells, which causes the signs and symptoms of psoriasis. Psoriasis is not contagious and can occur anywhere on your body, but most often symptoms occur on your elbows or knees. Staying healthy can help you reduce psoriasis flare-ups.
Aerobic Exercise
Regular aerobic exercise can help you manage your psoriasis, reports Columbia University Medical Center. Aim for 30 minutes of aerobic exercise on most days of the week, depending on the severity of your condition and your doctor's instructions. Aerobic exercise, such as walking, cycling, running or swimming, can also help you reach or maintain a normal weight, which is important in managing your psoriasis.
Stress and Anxiety
Stress and anxiety may cause flare-ups with your psoriasis, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. Regular exercise has been shown to help reduce stress and anxiety and can also improve self-esteem and self-confidence. Other types of exercises, such as yoga and tai chi, or doing other relaxation exercises can be beneficial in treating and managing your psoriasis.
Considerations
Always check with your doctor before beginning an exercise program if you have a chronic disease that may affect your ability to exercise safely or if you have been sedentary for some time. Always follow your doctor's instructions and gradually and slowly work your way up to the recommended amount of exercise. Visiting with a certified exercise specialist may be beneficial in helping you develop an exercise program that meets your specific needs and goals.
Benefits
Regular exercise can help you prevent and manage psoriatic arthritis, a type of arthritis that can affect some people with psoriasis. Mayoclinic.com recommends exercise to help you relieve the pain and fatigue associated with psoriatic arthritis. Regular exercise can also help lower your risk for developing other chronic diseases, including heart disease, some types of cancer and type 2 diabetes.
References
- Columbia University Medical Center: Psoriasis
- FamilyDoctor.org: Psoriasis
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Psoriasis - Phototherapy
- "ACSM's Guidelines for Exercise Testing and Prescription"; Walter R. Thompson, Ph.D., ed.; 2010
- WomensHealth.gov: Autoimmune Diseases: Overview
- MayoClinic.com: Psoriatic arthritis: Lifestyle and home remedies
