- Rheumatoid Arthritis Awareness Day is observed on February 2nd.
- It was started by the Rheumatoid Patient Foundation to spread awareness of the disease, get diagnosed early, and begin treatment as soon as possible.
- Rheumatoid arthritis is different from osteoarthritis, which is common in older people. In fact, arthritis means “inflammation of the joint”.
- However, RA is an auto-immune disease caused by the immune system mistakenly attacking the joints. The symptoms are pain, stiffness, and inflammation.
- There are various approaches to treat Rheumatoid Arthritis and to reduced flare ups. Rheumatology specific Physiotherapy along with medical management plays a very important role in improving lifestyle of these patients.
- At IRAC, our Rheumatology Trained Physiotherapist carry out detailed assessment to:
- Identify how patient’s condition affect them physically and to what degree an individual’s function is affected including mobility, posture etc.
- Examine the musculoskeletal system to get a baseline of a patient’s current abilities.
- Consider other body systems like, neurology, cardiovascular etc
- Any special equipment requirement such as walking aid, modified footwear, splint requirements.
- The patient’s current self-management and coping strategies
