Treatment of rheumatoid arthritis

1. What sort of non-medicinal treatment program is indicated for acute disease?
*2. What sort of exercise program is indicated for mild disease?
3. What modalities are used in RA?
4. What are indications for orthotics in RA?
5. What is the major function of a hand orthosis in RA?

Answers:
1. Splinting to prevent immobilization with slow PROM to prevent contracture.
2. Isometric exercise to restore and maintain strength. Avoid isotonic and isokinetic exercises.
3. Superficial moist heat can decrease pain but causes increased joint destruction and should not be used on an acutely inflamed joint, cryotherapy for pain relief.
4. Decrease pain and inflammation, reduce weight through joint, joint stabilization, and joint rest.
5. Prevention of MCP flexion. (Cannot actually be prevented, but can be slowed.)