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    dermatological

    Psoriasis (adjunctive care)

    Also known as: psoriasis, plaque psoriasis, psoriasis vulgaris

    Psoriasis is a long-term immune-related skin condition causing scaly plaques, often with joint involvement. Topical treatment, phototherapy and systemic medicines under a GP or dermatologist lead; acupuncture and Chinese medicine are adjuncts. Patterns include Blood Heat, Blood dryness and Blood stasis.

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    Lifestyle & Diet

    • •Use moisturiser every day, even when the skin looks clear.
    • •Stopping smoking and cutting alcohol can reduce flares.
    • •Keep a healthy weight — it helps psoriasis and heart health.
    • •Ask your GP about joint pain early.

    Cautions & Contraindications

    See sources
    • •Don't needle into active plaques; avoid triggering the Koebner response.[]
    • •Check herbs against systemic medicines such as methotrexate or biologics.[]

    When to reassess or seek care again

    See sources

    Photograph lesions and estimate body surface area every 4–6 weeks; liaise with the dermatologist.

    Explore more diseases

    Achilles tendinopathy (adjunctive care)Acid reflux (GERD)Acne vulgarisAcute bronchitisAcute cystitisAcute gastritisAcute lumbar sprainAcute otitis media

    Sources & Further Reading

    Clinical guidance, red flags and safety notes on this page draw on the following current sources alongside the classical references above.

    1. Psoriasis — Healthdirect
      Healthdirect Australia · 2024
    2. Psoriasis — DermNet
      DermNet · 2023
    3. Psoriasis: assessment and management — NICE CG153
      NICE · 2017
    4. Chinese medicine practitioner safety standards
      AHPRA / Chinese Medicine Board of Australia · 2024

    Educational reference for licensed practitioners. Not a substitute for individual clinical assessment. Refer to conventional care for any red-flag or undiagnosed presentation.