Understanding Rheumatoid Arthritis: Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Treatment Options

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic condition that affects the joints, causing pain, swelling, and stiffness. Unlike osteoarthritis, which is commonly associated with aging or injury, RA is an autoimmune disorder. This means the body's immune system mistakenly attacks healthy tissues, particularly in the joints. Over time, this can lead to joint damage and, if left untreated, disability.

What Are the Symptoms of Rheumatoid Arthritis?

RA affects both small and large joints, most commonly those in the hands, wrists, knees, and feet. Early symptoms can vary, but most people with RA experience:

• Joint pain and tenderness: This is often felt in the wrists, knees, fingers, and other joints, and it tends to occur symmetrically (i.e., on both sides of the body).
• Swelling: Inflammation causes joints to swell, making them feel warm to the touch and difficult to move.
• Stiffness: Particularly in the morning or after long periods of inactivity, joints can feel stiff and difficult to move.
• Fatigue: Chronic inflammation can make people with RA feel unusually tired or fatigued.
• Loss of joint function: Over time, the damage caused by RA can make it harder to move the affected joints, limiting a person's ability to perform everyday tasks.

While symptoms can come and go, they often worsen over time if not properly managed. This is why early diagnosis and treatment are essential to controlling the condition and minimizing damage.

How Is Rheumatoid Arthritis Diagnosed?

Diagnosing RA involves a combination of medical history, physical examinations, and tests. If you experience symptoms of RA, your healthcare provider may:

1. Review your medical history: Your doctor will ask about your symptoms, when they started, and if there is any family history of arthritis.
2. Conduct a physical exam: The doctor will assess your joints for signs of swelling, tenderness, or warmth. They will also check for other potential signs of RA, like reduced range of motion.
3. Order blood tests: Certain blood markers, such as the rheumatoid factor (RF) or anti-CCP (cyclic citrullinated peptide) antibodies, may be present in people with RA. These blood markers help confirm the diagnosis.
4. Imaging tests: X-rays or MRIs can help detect joint damage and inflammation. Early in the disease, imaging tests may not show obvious changes, but they can be useful over time to monitor the progression of RA.

Treatment Options for Rheumatoid Arthritis

While there is no cure for RA, there are several treatment options to help manage symptoms, reduce inflammation, and prevent further joint damage. A combination of medication, lifestyle changes, and physical therapy is often the most effective approach.

Physiotherapy

Physiotherapy is a critical part of managing RA. A physiotherapist will work with you to create an individualized program to improve joint function, reduce pain, and prevent further damage. Treatment may include:

• Exercise programs: Regular low-impact exercises, such as swimming, walking, or cycling, can help improve joint flexibility and reduce stiffness. Strengthening exercises for muscles around affected joints also provide stability and reduce strain.
• Heat and cold therapy: Applying heat or cold to inflamed joints can help reduce pain and swelling. Your physiotherapist can guide you on when and how to use these therapies.
• Education and self-management: Physiotherapists teach strategies to protect joints and prevent further damage. They may suggest changes in daily activities to reduce stress on affected joints.

Lifestyle Modifications

While medication and therapy are important, lifestyle changes can also help manage RA. These include:

• Eating a healthy diet: A balanced diet with plenty of fruits, vegetables, and omega-3-rich foods (such as fish) can help reduce inflammation.
• Managing stress: Stress can trigger flare-ups, so practicing relaxation techniques like deep breathing, meditation, or yoga can be beneficial.
• Rest and sleep: Getting enough rest is important for overall health and can help the body manage the fatigue that often accompanies RA.

Conclusion

Rheumatoid arthritis is a chronic condition that requires long-term management. While the symptoms can be challenging, with the right treatment plan, including medication, physiotherapy, and lifestyle modifications, it is possible to maintain an active and fulfilling life.

If you’re living with RA, it’s important to consult with healthcare professionals, to create a personalized treatment plan. With the right care and support, you can manage your symptoms and keep moving forward.

For more information about rheumatoid arthritis and how physiotherapy can help, don’t hesitate to contact our clinic. Our team is here to support you on your journey to better joint health.

Written by Lauren Brigham, Master's of Physiotherapy Student, in collaboration with River East Physiotherapy 

Reference: Home | Arthritis Society Canada