RHEUMATOID ARTHRITIS
RA is a chronic autoimmune and inflammatory disease where the body's immune system attacks the tissues of the body, mainly the linings of joints, causing painful inflammation. RA can also attack internal organs depending on severity. The inflammation causes damage to joint tissues, sometimes resulting in joint deformity.
WHAT IS IT?
The most common areas affected by RA are the smaller joints of hands, feet, or cervical spine. RA is found two to three times more often in women than in men, but can happen at any age. The likelihood of developing RA increases with age, smoking, obesity, and genetics.
USUALLY AFFECTS
Although there is no cure for arthritis, there are ways to stop or slow the disease and to reduce the pain. Medical treatments such as the disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drugs (DMARDs) can be prescribed to slow disease. Pain management strategies like controlled physical activity or physical therapy can help to manage life with RA.
POSSIBLE SURGERY/RECOVERY
Symptoms: tender, warm, swollen, and painful joints; morning stiffness; fatigue
Any movements that cause pain and overexertion should be avoided. Due to inflammation in the joint, high impact activities should also be avoided.
CONTRAINDICATIONS