Rehab: Arthritis

Osteoarthritis (OA)

A type of arthritis characterized as 'wear and tear' arthritis, common in older adults, affecting cartilage at joint ends.

Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA)

An autoimmune disorder causing inflammation of the synovium, more common in women aged 35-45, with symmetrical joint effects.

Rheumatoid factor

An antibody that attacks the linings of joints in rheumatoid arthritis.

Stage 1 of Rheumatoid Arthritis

Early stage showing osteoporosis on X-ray and positive blood antibody tests.

Stage 3 of Rheumatoid Arthritis

Severe stage characterized by cartilage and bone destruction, joint deformities.

Wrist subluxation

A common deformity in rheumatoid arthritis where the wrist joint is partially dislocated.

DMARDs

Disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs that alter the disease course in rheumatoid arthritis.

Ankylosis

The terminal stage of rheumatoid arthritis where there is bone fusion.

Joint Protection Principles

Strategies to reduce joint stress and maintain strength and range of motion.

Energy Conservation Principles

Methods to balance rest and activity to prevent fatigue in those with arthritis.

Stage 4 Rheumatoid arthritis

(Terminal) Ankylosis (Bone fusion)

RA Deformities

Wrist subluxation, carpal tunnel, MCP ulnar drift, swan neck, boutonniere, trigger finger, RA thumb

RA Splints

Wrist cock-up, long thumb spica, thumb spica, Ulnar drift splint, silver ring spints

RA medications

Aspirin & NSAIDs (pain and inflammation relief)

DMARDs (anti-rheumatic drugs) alter disease course

Gold salts, corticosteroids, immunosuppressants

RA Surgery

Joint replacement, fusion, synovial removal

Alternative RA treatment

Allergy therapy, diet changes, homeopathy, chiropractic care, vitamins, acupuncture, bee stings

Arthritis Precautions

Respect pain, avoid fatigue

Avoid stress on inflamed joints

Use exercise with caution

Sensory dysfunctions and fragile skin

Avoid heat

Arthritis Interventions

Education

Gentle strengthening, AROM/stretching

Splinting

Adaptive equipment

Joint protection and energy conservation

Joint protection

Reduce joint stress

Maintain strength and ROM

Avoid deforming positions

Stable positioning

Utilize the largest/strongest joints

Energy conservation techniques

10-12 hours rest daily

Take breaks regularly

Pace activities

Plan tasks, avoid rushing

Use adaptive devices

Minimize trips, simplify tasks

RA complications

Stroke, Heart problems

Diabetes

Sleep issues

Derpession/anxiety

Vasculitis

Blood disease, osteoporosis