Rheumatoid Arthritis

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic autoimmune disorder that primarily affects the joints, causing inflammation, pain, and stiffness.

Causes of RA:

1. Autoimmune Factors
2. Genetic Factors
3. Environmental Factors

Sign and Symptoms of RA:

1. Joint Pain/ Swelling
2. Morning Stiffness
3. Joint Deformities
4. Fatigue
5. General Body weakness/ Malaise
6. Low-grade Fever

Physical Therapy Management:

• Modalities such as hot pack/ cold pack to reduce inflammation and pain.
• Gentle Range of Motion exercises to maintain flexibility
• Manual Therapy Technique such as Mobilizations to restore the joint mobility.
• Strengthening exercises for muscles around affected joints to improve stability and support.
• Task-specific training to improve functional abilities for activities of daily living, work, and leisure.
• Low-impact aerobic exercises like swimming or cycling to enhance cardiovascular fitness without stressing the joints