Spondycast

In this episode of Spondycast's Psoriatic Arthritis Explained series, we discuss how treatment for PsA has evolved, the major treatment options available today, how providers and patients make treatment decisions, what to consider when switching therapies, and what emerging advances may shape the future of PsA care.

Retired rheumatologist Dr. W. Patrick Knibbe shares his unique perspective as both a physician and a patient living with spondyloarthritis.

In this episode of Spondycast's Psoriatic Arthritis Explained series, we provide a foundational overview of psoriatic arthritis, including its relationship to psoriasis, common symptoms, risk factors, diagnostic challenges, treatment goals, and where it fits within the broader family of spondyloarthritis conditions.

Alana Goldstein Leever, PsyD, a clinical psychologist who works directly with children and teens in pediatric rheumatology clinics, shares how mental health support can work alongside medical care to help young people and their families cope, build resilience, and feel supported.

Vince Gagliardi shares his journey living with axial spondyloarthritis (axSpA), from navigating diagnosis and daily challenges to becoming an advocate through storytelling.

Rheumatologist Abhijeet Danve, MD, MHS, an Associate Professor of Medicine at Yale University, and developer of the Axial Spondyloarthritis Screening Tool (A-Tool) discusses why diagnostic delays happen, how the A-Tool screening survey was designed to help identify patterns of inflammatory back pain, and how it may support earlier referral to a rheumatologist.

Alfred N. Romeo, BA, BSN, RN, MS, PhD, a MotherToBaby expert, joins Spondycast to discuss family planning when spondyloarthritis is part of the picture.

Chuck Melendi, founder of Disruptive Dialogue, joins Spondycast to unpack the complex system behind prescription drug pricing and explain why medications can be so expensive for patients.

Adrine Avetyan, MA, LMFT, and founder of Scalp Sanctuary, a wellness space designed to promote relaxation and restoration, joins us to explore what self-care really means.

Janet Poole, PhD, OTR/L, an occupational therapist, shares practical strategies to help people with SpA adapt how they approach everyday tasks at home, work, and in leisure activities to reduce pain, stiffness, and fatigue while maintaining independence and quality of life.

Dr. Mark Hwang, MD joins us to discuss findings from his recent study on late-onset radiographic axial spondyloarthritis (AS), and how late-onset AS differs from early-onset disease in its presentation, radiographic findings, genetic markers, and treatment considerations.

Jana Bolduan Lomax, PsyD discusses psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy examined through a clinical and ethical lens.

Janet Poole, PhD, OTR/L, shares an occupational therapy perspective on fatigue and reframes energy conservation as a practical, empowering skill.

Dr. Dharini Mahendira, MD, FRCPC, MScCH, discusses what patients need to know when planning a family while managing SpA. From pre-conception planning and disease control to medication considerations and coordinated care during pregnancy, this conversation provides evidence-based guidance and reassurance to help patients feel informed, prepared, and supported in making decisions alongside their healthcare team.

Kristen Mengwasser, MD, PhD, physician-scientist and Assistant Adjunct Professor of Rheumatology at UCSF — and SAA’s 2025 Early Career Investigator Award winner — joins us to discuss her research on how the immune system triggers axial spondyloarthritis (axSpA).

Susan Murphy, ScD, OTR, introduces the SAA-funded RENEW Study, a new University of Michigan research initiative focused on fatigue, energy management, and resilience in people living with spondyloarthritis.

Leadership expert Donzel Leggett, Author of Make Your Destiny Happen, joins Spondycast to share practical approaches for building confidence and advancing both personally and professionally while managing a chronic illness.

Dr. Mohamad Bittar, MD, MS, Assistant Professor of Medicine at Oregon Health & Science University — and SAA’s 2025 Early Career Investigator Award winner — discusses his research on pain mechanisms and brain connectivity in people living with axial spondyloarthritis (axSpA).