ABC of Rheumatology: RHEUMATOID ARTHRITIS—II: TREATMENT
BMJ 1995; 310 doi: https://doi.org/10.1136/bmj.310.6980.652 (Published 11 March 1995) Cite this as: BMJ 1995;310:652- M Akil,
- R S Amos
Except for the mildest cases, rheumatoid arthritis cannot be adequately managed by one specialist in isolation from others. Most people with rheumatoid arthritis cope better if they understand their condition and have realistic expectations of the benefits and disadvantages of treatment. Therefore, education of patients is an important aspect of treatment. Specialist rheumatology nurses have become well established in many rheumatology departments; their role includes monitoring drugs used to treat rheumatoid arthritis and differentiating minor or unrelated symptoms from those that require action.
Goals of treatment in rheumatoid arthritis
Relief of symptoms
Preservation of function
Prevention of structural damage and deformity
Maintenance of patient's normal lifestyle
Physical therapy
In a physiotherapy department local measures such as heat, cold, and electrotherapy may be used to reduce pain and generally form part of a rehabilitation programme of exercises designed to improve muscle strength and encourage mobility in affected joints. The aims of occupational therapy are to educate patients; to protect joints; to analyse function and to improve it by means of exercise and use of aids and appliances; and to provide splints when necessary.
Role of physiotherapy for rheumatoid arthritis
Education of patients
Reduction of pain and swelling
Mobilisation of joints to minimise deformity
Strengthening of muscles and prevention of disuse atrophy
Increase range of movements and function
Few of the individual techniques used in physiotherapy and occupational therapy have been subjected to controlled trials, but there is no doubt that therapists who are skilled in handling atrophied, inflamed, and stiff tissues and familiar with the problems faced by patients with arthritis greatly help in treatment and rehabilitation.
Role of podiatry for rheumatoid arthritis
Local redistribution of loading to prevent formation of calluses
Provision of specialised footwear
Provision of customised orthoses and insoles to improve foot and toe posture and function
Provision of foot care to prevent local infection
Surgery
The aims of surgery are to relieve pain and to restore function. Indications …
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