RHEUMATOID ARTHRITIS

WHAT IS RHEUMATOID ARTHRITIS?

• Chronic disease
• Inflammation of joints
• Tissues,ligaments,muscles
• Autoimmune disorder
• Deforms joints & destroys cartilage

CONT'D

• Over 1 million people
• Can remain dormant

RISKS & RISK FACTORS

• Osteoporosis
• Carpal tunnel syndrome
• Heart problems
• Lung disease

CONT'D

• Age
• Gender
• Family history
• Weight
• Work & leisure activities

SIGNS & SYMPTOMS

• Tender, warm swollen joints
• Smaller joints then progresses to larger joints
• Fever, fatigue, weight loss, morning joint stiffness
• Usually same joints on both sides
• Come & go, sudden flares

DIAGNOSIS

• Can imitate other diseases
• Blood tests (ESR or sed rate)
• X-Ray test (anti-CCP)
• Imitates other diseases
• No cure

CONT'D

• NSAIDS to relieve pain
• DMARDS slow Advancement
• Surgery to restore joints
• Tendon repair
• Occupational therapy

OT & RHEUMATOID ARTHRITIS

• Help patients gain independent mobility
• Asses, learn capabilities, goal desires
• Exercises to keep joints flexible
• Main focus - reduce strain
• Pacing the patient

CONT'D

• Less painful ways to utilize joints
• Help with ADLs
• Self care training, productive activities
• Assistive devices(cane,crutch,brace,splint,clothes fastener
• Over come barriers successfully