Different Types of Rheumatoid Arthritis Therapy

Rheumatoid arthritis therapy is aimed at pain relief and continued mobility. Rheumatoid arthritis is an incurable disease that leads to degeneration of the joints in the body. Left untreated, RA can result in a person becoming bedridden and unable to move. The good news is that there are some fairly effective treatments for the relief of pain and swelling caused by this condition. Considered as a treatment whole, there are three types of Rheumatoid arthritis therapy.

•                                rheumatoid arthritis therapy

Medical Therapy

The first type of rheumatoid arthritis therapy is medical. Medications designed to reduce the swelling in inflamed joints NSAIDs, meaning non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. They may include corticosteroids when more drastic measures are needed to reduce swelling faster or for longer periods. Pain medications may also be prescribed to dull the aches associated with RA back to a level that allows mobility without the agony. Other medications will be included to reduce or halt the degeneration of the joints as caused by this particular type of arthritis.

Physical Therapy

Physical therapy is the second line of RA therapy. A physical therapist will work with your medical doctor to develop a plan of exercises designed to keep your body moving. An initial assessment will be done to determine how much mobility has already been lost. A program of exercises including range of motion, stretches, strength training, and aerobic components will be initiated.

The goal of the physical therapist is to keep you moving. You have probably heard the old saying, "Use it or lose it." If you are suffering from rheumatoid arthritis, this statement is absolute truth. You must work daily to maintain the mobility you have. RA can rob you of the ability to move if you let it.

Physical therapists will push you to do things you do not want to do because they cause pain. After an intensive physical therapy session they will apply hot packs or cold compresses to reduce swelling and pain. Many also offer therapeutic massage to relax the muscles and ease pain following a tough exercise routine

Occupational Therapy

The third component of rheumatoid arthritis therapy is occupational therapy. Physical therapists are focused on keeping you moving. Occupational therapists are focused on helping you accomplish daily tasks.

You will be taught different ways to move to accomplish tasks that minimize the stress placed on sore stiff joints. When normal tasks become to difficult and painful, occupational therapists can assist with different devices. These devices are generally designed to make everyday tasks easier to perform. The job of the occupational therapist is helping you maintain as much independence as possible to continue living your life in a manner you see fit to live.

Rheumatoid arthritis is a very debilitating disease that can not be prevented or cured. Treatments are available to help a person live with RA and limit the degeneration it causes. Medicine, physical therapy, and occupational therapy are three types of rheumatoid arthritis therapy.



Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/2961651