Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic inflammatory disorder that primarily affects the joints, leading to pain, swelling, stiffness and loss of function. As the disease progresses, it can cause severe disability and affect quality of life. Physiotherapy plays a crucial role in managing RA and improving mobility in affected individuals.
Physiotherapists are part of the multidisciplinary team involved in RA management. Their primary role is to improve or maintain joint function, reduce pain and prevent further joint damage. They use various techniques such as exercises, manual therapy and electrotherapy to achieve these goals.
Exercise therapy is one of the mainstays of physiotherapy management for RA. Regular exercise helps keep the joints flexible while strengthening muscles around them which provide support and stability. Exercise also aids in weight control which reduces pressure on weight-bearing joints like knees and hips thereby decreasing pain.
Manual therapy involves hands-on techniques such as massage and mobilization/manipulation used by physiotherapists to increase movement, decrease pain and induce relaxation. In RA patients who have stiff joints due to inflammation or adhesions from previous inflammation episodes, manual therapy can help restore normal joint range of motion.
Electrotherapy includes modalities like transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS), ultrasound or laser therapy which are used for discover further their analgesic effects i.e., they help reduce pain by blocking its transmission from peripheral nerves to central nervous system or by promoting release of endorphins – body’s natural painkillers.
Apart from these therapeutic interventions, physiotherapists educate patients about their disease condition including its progression pattern as well as self-management strategies which include pacing activities throughout day so that not too much strain is put on affected joints at one go; using assistive devices like splints for wrist/hand involvement or walking aids if lower limbs are affected; practicing good postures especially during work-related tasks etc., all aimed at making day-to-day activities easier and less painful.
Physiotherapists also play a role in promoting overall health and well-being of RA patients. They provide advice on regular exercises suitable for individual’s condition and abilities, encourage healthy eating habits to maintain optimal weight, discourage smoking as it can worsen RA symptoms and advise on stress management techniques since stress can trigger or exacerbate flare-ups.
To conclude, physiotherapy is an integral part of rheumatoid arthritis treatment. It not only aids in symptom management but also empowers patients with knowledge about their condition enabling them to take charge of their disease. By improving mobility, reducing pain and enhancing function, physiotherapy significantly contributes towards improving quality of life in individuals living with rheumatoid arthritis.
