The Role of Physical Therapy in the Management of Rheumatoid Arthritis

Abstract

Rheumatoid arthritis is a persistent and severe clinical condition that causes gradual joint degeneration, impairs quality of life, and shortens life expectancy. Even mild inflammation is responsible for causing permanent disability and impairment. Patients with rheumatoid arthritis may experience an intermittent or progressive clinical course, depending on their symptoms. The primary objective of managing rheumatoid arthritis is to relieve discomfort while avoiding joint deterioration and functional loss. Physical therapy plays a vital role in the management of rheumatoid arthritis, as physical therapy considerably supplements pharmacological therapy by enhancing the management of rheumatoid arthritis and lowering the limitations on daily life for rheumatoid arthritis patients. Among physical therapy modalities, physiotherapy treatments are frequently employed, which include hydrotherapy, electrical stimulation, and cold/hot treatments. Furthermore, it has been demonstrated that exercise training for rheumatoid arthritis patients is effective in reversing cachexia, significantly increasing function without escalating disease activity, and likely lowering cardiovascular risk. For rheumatoid arthritis patients, physical therapy, including exercise, is safe and effective. Exercise and increased physical activity have been shown to reduce disease symptoms such as pain and exhaustion, enhance physical function, and improve mental health, ultimately leading to an improved quality of life. The purpose of this research is to review the available information about the role of physical therapy in the management of rheumatoid arthritis