Physiotherapy in Rheumatoid Arthritis

Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) Definition: RA is a chronic autoimmune inflammatory disease that mainly affects joints causing pain swelling stiffness and reduced function. 👀 Causes: * Exact cause is unknown * Genetic factors * Abnormal immune response * Environmental factors * Smoking * Possible infectious triggers * Hormonal factors ✅ Risk Factors: * Female sex * Increasing age * Family history of RA * Smoking * Obesity * Environmental exposure * Hormonal changes 📝 Physiotherapy Assessment: * Pain and morning stiffness * Joint swelling and tenderness * ROM * Muscle strength * Grip strength * Joint deformity * Posture and gait * Balance * Functional activities * Fatigue and endurance * Disease activity and disability 🏋️‍♀️ Physiotherapy Treatment: * Patient education * Joint protection * Activity modification * Pain relieving modalities when appropriate * Gentle ROM exercises * Stretching * Strengthening exercises * Aerobic exercises * Hydrotherapy * Hand exercises * Splinting when indicated * Energy conservation and pacing ⚠️ During Flare-up * Relative rest * Reduce aggravating activities * Gentle pain free ROM * Avoid heavy resistance high impact exercise * Gradually resume exercise as symptoms settle 📌 Main Goals: Reduce pain decrease stiffness maintain ROM improve strength improve endurance protect joints improve functional independence.