Rheumatoid Arthritis Therapy - What Does it Involve?

Rheumatoid arthritis afflicts 1.3 million Americans. Those who have the condition often seek various forms of treatment to relieve painful symptoms such as swollen joints, stiff joints, and joints that are tender to the touch. One of these treatments is rheumatoid arthritis therapy.

Rheumatoid arthritis therapy is generally administered by a physical therapist and it works to stimulate your muscles, bones, and joints with exercise and various other methods. This stimulus can improve your joint function, fitness level, and muscle strength, helping to relieve some of the pain you experience with rheumatoid arthritis.

If a therapist begins working with you when the disease is in the early stages, he or she can devise a plan that will maximize your chances of avoiding any further joint problems as your condition evolves. That plan will likely include strategies on how to work each affected joint, as well as a complete fitness program to keep the rest of your body healthy and mobile.

Aside from exercise, your rheumatoid arthritis therapy can involve the use of heat or ice packs to treat and soothe inflamed joints, and therapeutic massages to reduce painful symptoms. It may also include alternative therapies, such as acupuncture and massage. Your therapist or regular physician may also suggest a regimen of painkillers and/or anti-inflammatory drugs to make your condition more bearable.

If you think you may be experiencing rheumatoid arthritis symptoms, contact your doctor today. This ensures that you'll get an accurate diagnosis, and a treatment plan that works.