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Understanding Rheumatoid Arthritis

Insights and Management from an Osteopath's Perspective


Written by Gemma Ahrens


Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) is a chronic autoimmune condition that affects millions of people worldwide, causing pain, inflammation, and joint damage. RA affects around 1% of the Australian population, with women being more commonly affected than men. While it can develop at any age, it most often begins between the ages of 40 and 60. In this blog post, we'll delve into how RA presents and discuss evidence-based management strategies from the unique perspective of an osteopath.


Understanding Rheumatoid Arthritis

RA primarily targets the joints, leading to inflammation, pain, stiffness, and eventually joint damage and deformity. Unlike osteoarthritis, which is often associated with wear and tear on the joints, RA is an autoimmune disorder where the body's immune system mistakenly attacks its tissues, particularly the synovium (the lining of the joints).

Source: https://www.chrisbaileyorthopaedics.com/blog/brief-guide-to-rheumatoid-arthritis-and-knees/
Presentation of Rheumatoid Arthritis

Joint symptoms:

  • RA typically affects multiple joints symmetrically, commonly involving the hands, wrists, knees, and feet. 

  • Stiffness that lasts for longer than an hour in the mornings is a common initial presentation of RA. 

  • Redness and swelling in joints often accompanied with heat and tenderness is another common presentation.

  

Systemic Symptoms:

  • Beyond joint issues, RA can cause fatigue, fever, weight loss, and a general feeling of malaise. 


Other:

  • Around 40% of people with RA can experience signs and symptoms in areas of the body other than joints. This can include skin, eyes, kidneys and more.


Diagnosis

In Australia, RA will be diagnosed by a rheumatologist through tests that may include blood tests, x-rays and MRI’s. If you are concerned that you may have RA, it is important to visit your GP so they can refer you to a rheumatologist for diagnosis and management. 


Best Management Strategies

Management for rheumatoid arthritis (RA) typically involves a combination of medication, lifestyle modifications, and various therapies aimed at reducing inflammation, relieving pain, preserving joint function, and improving overall well-being. Here are some common management strategies:


Medications:

  • Certain medications are often prescribed in the management of RA to slow down the progression of the disease and prevent further joint damage, decrease inflammation and help to reduce pain . Medications such as disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drugs (DMARDs) and corticosteroids may be suggested. 


Regular Exercise: 

  • Engaging in low-impact exercises such as swimming, cycling, and walking can help improve joint flexibility, strength, and overall fitness. It's important to work with a healthcare professional to develop an exercise program tailored to individual needs and abilities.


Healthy Diet: 

  • There is evidence to suggest that certain dietary modifications may help reduce inflammation and improve symptoms in RA. A diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and omega-3 fatty acids (found in fish) may be beneficial. Some individuals may also benefit from avoiding foods that trigger inflammation, such as processed foods, sugary snacks, and excessive alcohol. This is dependant on each individual and it is best to speak to a dietician or naturopath to decide what is best for you. 


Weight Management: 

  • Maintaining a healthy weight can help reduce the strain on joints affected by RA, thereby decreasing pain and improving mobility.


Stress Management: 

  • Stress can exacerbate RA symptoms, so incorporating stress-reduction techniques such as mindfulness, meditation, relaxation exercises, and hobbies into daily life may help improve overall well-being.


Regular Monitoring: 

  • It's essential for individuals with RA to have regular follow-up appointments with their healthcare team to monitor disease activity, adjust medications as needed, and address any new symptoms or concerns.


Osteopathic Treatment:

  • Osteopathic treatment for RA focuses on a holistic approach to managing symptoms, improving joint function, and enhancing overall well-being.

  • Osteopathic manual therapy techniques such as gentle joint mobilisation and soft tissue massage can help improve joint mobility, reduce pain, and alleviate muscle tension associated with RA.

  • Tailored exercise programs, including range of motion exercises, strengthening exercises, and low-impact aerobic activities to help maintain joint flexibility, strengthen muscles around the affected joints, and improve overall physical function.

  • Further education around your condition and how to best self manage your pain between appointments. 


Conclusion

Rheumatoid Arthritis is a complex condition that requires a comprehensive, multidisciplinary approach to management that should be tailored to the individual needs of each patient. Osteopathic care offers a holistic, patient centred approach aimed at improving joint function, reducing pain, and enhancing overall well-being. By combining manual therapy with exercise, nutritional guidance and stress management techniques, as well as medications and dietary changes suggested by other health care professionals, individuals with RA can effectively manage their symptoms and lead fulfilling lives.


If you are looking for support for Osteoarthritis, you can give us a call on 0425 876 929 or book an appointment with Gemma below.



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