Medication Options for Reducing Symptoms
There are several medication options available to help reduce rheumatoid arthritis symptoms and slow disease progression. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen can help relieve joint pain and stiffness. However, NSAIDs do not slow disease activity and may cause side effects with long-term use. Disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs) are usually the first-line rheumatoid arthritis treatment, as they can reduce inflammation and prevent further joint damage. Methotrexate is one of the most commonly prescribed DMARDs and has been shown to be effective for treating rheumatoid arthritis symptoms. If methotrexate does not achieve adequate control of symptoms or side effects occur, other DMARD options may include leflunomide, hydroxychloroquine, or sulfasalazine. For those with moderate to severe disease, biologic DMARDs that target tumor necrosis factor (TNF) or other cytokines may be prescribed alone or in combination with methotrexate. Biologic DMARDs, such as adalimumab, infliximab, etanercept, certolizumab, and golimumab, have been shown to significantly reduce rheumatoid arthritis symptoms and prevent further joint damage in many patients.
Surgical Options for Damaged Joints
For some Rheumatoid Arthritis Treatment patients, joint damage progresses to the point where surgical joint replacement or repair may become necessary. Surgery can significantly reduce pain and improve mobility and quality of life. Joints most commonly needing replacement or repair include knees, hips, shoulders, elbows, wrists, and fingers. Total joint replacement typically involves removing damaged bone and cartilage from the end of bones and replacing them with metal, plastic or ceramic prosthetics. Partial joint replacement or joint repair surgery may be options for knees and other joints in the earlier stages of damage. Surgeons can also perform soft tissue releases, tendon transfers, and joint fusions to help improve mobility if joint damage is advanced. Managing expectations is important, as surgery may not restore full range of motion or activity level depending on the extent of pre-existing damage. However, surgery combined with medications and physical therapy often provides significant relief from rheumatoid arthritis pain.
Physical and Occupational Therapies
Staying as active as possible is important for keeping joints flexible and muscles strong. Physical and occupational therapy can help strengthen muscles supporting joints, improve mobility, teach techniques to safely perform daily activities, and provide joint protection education. Range-of-motion and low-impact exercises help maintain healthy joints by keeping them moving. Gentle activities like walking, swimming, and water aerobics are recommended. Heat or cold therapy may relieve stiffness and pain. Hand therapy and splints can help protect hand joints from unwanted stress or injury that causes further damage. Occupational therapy evaluates activities of daily living and recommends adaptations to reduce strain on joints. Therapists may custom-fit assistive devices like built-up utensils, braces, and dress aids. Learning energy conservation techniques and joint pain self-management skills also aid functionality. Although exercises may cause temporary flare-ups, consistent low-impact movement provides benefits that outweigh risks over the long term.
Complementary Therapies for Additional Symptom Relief
Some rheumatoid arthritis patients use complementary and alternative therapies along with rheumatoid arthritis treatment to help further manage pain and other symptoms. Massage may relax muscles and provide temporary pain relief. Acupuncture promotes relaxation and releases natural pain-relieving endorphins - studies have found acupuncture can reduce levels of inflammation associated with rheumatoid arthritis. Mind-body practices such as yoga, tai chi, and meditation help decrease stress levels, which lowers inflammation and improves mood. For those unable to participate in physical activities, guided imagery or other relaxation techniques may offer benefit. Glucosamine and chondroitin supplements are commonly used, but their effectiveness for rheumatoid arthritis treatment is unclear. Some preliminary evidence indicates omega-3 fatty acids from fish oil may help lower inflammation and symptoms. Consulting a knowledgeable integrative medicine practitioner can help determine which complementary options may offer additional benefit without interacting negatively with medical treatments. However, medical approaches should not be halted or replaced without doctor supervision.
Lifestyle Changes That Make a Difference
Beyond medications and therapies, certain lifestyle strategies can aid rheumatoid arthritis management. Getting adequate quality sleep allows the body to rest and repair. Losing extra weight if overweight reduces strain on weight-bearing joints. Eating an anti-inflammatory diet rich in colorful fruits and vegetables, whole grains, healthy fats from plant sources and fish, and fish oil supplements provides nourishment that counters the illness. Limiting sugar, red meat, and processed foods curbs inflammation. Staying hydrated keeps joints cushioned and mobile. Avoiding smoking and limit alcohol supports healing. Minimizing stress through relaxation practices restrains inflammation. Asking for help from family prevents injuries from overexertion. Setting priorities, simplifying tasks, and pacing activities can enable functioning despite fatigue or flares. Making lifestyle adjustments, while difficult at times, substantially enhances the body’s strength to fight rheumatoid arthritis.
This article provided an overview of medication options, surgical interventions, physical and occupational therapies, complementary approaches, and lifestyle changes that can help manage rheumatoid arthritis symptoms and prevent further joint damage. Utilizing a comprehensive rheumatoid arthritis treatment plan with medical and self-care strategies optimizes long-term control of this autoimmune disease.
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