Rheumatoid arthritis knuckles: Arthritis of the Hand: Symptoms, Types & Treatments

21.12.197904.12.2021 by alexxlab

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Arthritis of the Hand: Symptoms, Types & Treatments

Overview

What is arthritis of the hand?

Arthritis is a disease that attacks the tissues of your joints. A joint is where two bones meet. Arthritis can attack the lining of your joint or the cartilage, the smooth covering at the ends of bones. Eventually the cartilage breaks down, the ends of your bones become exposed, rub against each other and wear away. You have many joints in your hand, therefore it’s a common site for arthritis to happen.

Arthritis of the hand causes pain and swelling, stiffness and deformity. As arthritis progresses, you can’t use your hands to manage everyday tasks as you once could.

Are there different types of arthritis that affect the hands?

Yes. There are many, but these are some of the more common ones.

Osteoarthritis, also known as “wear and tear” or degenerative arthritis, is the most common type of arthritis. It causes the cartilage (the smooth, cushion covering at the ends of your bones) to break down and wear away. The ends of bones then rub together without protection, which causes pain, stiffness and loss of movement over time. Osteoarthritis most commonly affects your wrist, joint at the base of your thumb and the middle and top (near fingernails) joints of your fingers. Long-term disease can cause bony lumps to form in the joints of your finger.
Rheumatoid arthritis is a chronic (long-term, ongoing) inflammatory disease that causes the joint lining to swell, causing pain, stiffness and loss of function. It’s an autoimmune disease (your body’s immune system attacks its own healthy tissue). A joint’s lining is called synovium. Your synovium produces the fluid (lubricant) that allows cartilage to easily slide against each other. Eventually the inflammation destroys the cartilage at the end of bones and then erodes the bone itself. The joints lose their shape and alignment as the tendons and ligaments surrounding the bone weaken and stretch. Rheumatoid arthritis commonly affects the small joints of your wrists, hands and fingers. It usually affects the same joints on both sides of your body. For instance, if arthritis affects finger joints one hand, it’s likely to affect the finger joints on your other hand too.
Psoriatic arthritis is a form of arthritis that affects your skin (psoriasis) and joints. Your fingers become swollen. You will also feel joint pain and morning stiffness. In many cases, it is similar to rheumatoid arthritis. However, it may only involve several fingers.

What parts of the hand are most affected by arthritis?

The four areas of your hand attacked by arthritis are:

The base of your thumb, where your thumb meets your wrist.
Your knuckles.
The middle joints of your fingers.
The top joint of your fingers nearest your nails.

Who gets arthritis in their hands?

You are more likely to get arthritis in your hands if:

You’re older. Osteoarthritis is commonly seen after age 50. Rheumatoid arthritis typically first appears between the age of 35 and 50.
You’re a woman.
You’re white.
You’re overweight.
You’ve had previous injuries to your hand. If you’ve dislocated or broken any joints in your hands or fingers, you are more likely to develop arthritis.
You’ve inherited genes that cause the development of arthritis.

Symptoms and Causes

What are the symptoms of arthritis in the hands?

Early symptoms include:

Dull or burning joint pain, appearing hours or a day after increased use of your hands.
Morning pain and stiffness in your hand(s).
Swollen joints in your hand(s).

If you’ve had arthritis in your hand(s) for some time:

Symptoms are present more often.
Pain may change from dull ache to sharp pain.
Pain may wake you up at night.
Pain may cause you to change the way you use your hand(s).
Tissue surrounding your affected joint may become red and tender to the touch.
You’ll feel grating, grinding, cracking or clicking (crepitus) when bending your fingers.
Your fingers can’t fully open and close.
Small bony nodules form on the middle joint of your fingers (called Bouchard’s nodes) or at the top joints of your fingers (called Heberden’s nodes).
Your finger joints become large and deformed and abnormally bent, leaving your hands weak and less able to accomplish everyday tasks.

Diagnosis and Tests

How is arthritis in the hand diagnosed?

Your healthcare provider can make the diagnosis of arthritis of the hand by examining your hand and with X-rays. X-rays show loss of bone cartilage and formation of bone spurs. A blood test for rheumatoid factor and other markers can help determine if the cause is rheumatoid arthritis.

Management and Treatment

How is arthritis in the hand treated?

Treatment options depend on the type of arthritis, stage of arthritis, how many joints are affected, your age, activity level, the hand affected (if it’s your dominant hand) and other existing medical conditions.

Goals of treatment are to:

Decrease joint pain and stiffness.
Improve mobility and function.
Increase your quality of life.
In the case of rheumatoid or psoriatic arthritis, to slow the progression of the disease.

Treatment options include splinting/bracing, medications, injections, non-drug approaches and surgery.

Splinting/braces

Splits or braces support and protect the affected joint, reduce deformity, provide joint stability, lessen strain, and promote proper joint alignment. Your healthcare provider, occupational therapist or hand therapist will discuss splinting/bracing options, how and when to wear them and how long to wear them (wearing splints or braces too long can cause your muscles to weaken).

Medications

Your healthcare provider may prescribe medications to reduce your joint pain and swelling and, in the case of rheumatoid or psoriatic arthritis, to prevent joint damage. Your provider may try different drug classes, depending on the severity and type of your arthritis. For osteoarthritis, only acetaminophen or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs are recommended for limited use (as needed) for relief of your symptoms. There are currently no medications approved that help slow the progression of osteoarthritis. The drugs listed below are used to treat rheumatoid and psoriatic arthritis. Before taking any over-the-counter medication, make sure you check with your provider, as there are risks and reasons for not using these medications (depending on your other health conditions and/or medications).

Acetaminophen. This drug helps relieve pain.
Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. These drugs reduce pain and swelling in affected joints. Examples include ibuprofen, diclofenac, naproxen, celecoxib. Topical NSAIDs are the first topical treatment of choice for osteoarthritis.
Disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs. These slow the progression of rheumatoid arthritis and relieve symptoms. Examples include methotrexate, hydroxychloroquine, sulfasalazine (Azulfidine®), leflumonide (Arava®).
Corticosteroids. Taken by mouth, injected into your muscle or given by IV, these medications reduce inflammation and other symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis. Examples include prednisolone, prednisone, triamcinolone and methylprednisolone.
Immunosuppressive drugs. These slow the progression of rheumatoid arthritis and reduce damage to bone surrounding joints. Examples include azathioprine and cyclosporine.
Biologic agents. These can slow joint damage in rheumatoid arthritis. Examples include adalimumab (Humira®), etanercept (Enbrel®), infliximab (Remicade®), tofacitinib (Xeljanz®), tocilizumab (Actemra®), abatacept (Orencia®), rituximab (Rituxan®).

Steroid injections

Steroids reduce inflammation and relieve pain. Steroids are usually used if medications don’t control inflammation or if the inflammation is limited to a few joints. Injections are administered directly into the affected joint. Because steroids can weaken tendons and ligaments, injections are repeated only a few times.

Other management strategies

A complete treatment plan for arthritis of the hand includes these additional approaches:

Exercises — strengthening and stretching — to reduce symptoms and improve function. A hand therapist will work with you to prescribe the exercises best suited for your hand arthritis.
Hot and cold packs. Cold can help reduce pain and swelling. Heat can help reduce stiffness. Apply for no longer than 20 minutes at a time.
Rest. Regular rest periods can help relieve pain and inflammation in your joints.
Healthy eating and managing diabetes and cholesterol.
Weight loss if you’re overweight.
Smoking cessation. Smoking increases your risk of developing arthritis.
Occupational therapy to learn how to use self-help devices including those used to assist with dressing or preparing food in the kitchen.

Surgery

If nonsurgical treatments no longer provide relief and the cartilage at the ends of your bones has worn away, surgery may be an option. There are several approaches:

Joint fusion (arthrodesis): This surgery uses a plate and screws to keep the bones of your joint together. You’ll have a more stable, pain-free joint, but will have limited flexibility and movement.
Joint replacement (arthroplasty): Similar to other joint replacements, surgeons use an artificial implant made of plastic, ceramics, silicone or metals to replace your damaged joint. Keep in mind that hinged finger implants don’t mimic normal finger movement.
Tendon transfer: Tendons connect muscles to bones. The tendons that control your fingers attach to muscles in your palm and forearm. Ongoing inflammation from arthritis can cause tendons to rupture. If this happens, a portion of a healthy tendon can be used to restore your hand function.

You and your surgeon will discuss which surgical approach might be best for your hand considering your age, activity level, the joint(s) affected and the amount of pain and deformity you’re experiencing.

What type of hand surgery is most commonly performed on the specific joints affected by arthritis?

Base of the thumb: Where your thumb and wrist join. Common surgical options include removing part or all of one of the trapezium bone (the wrist bone immediately below your thumb joint), tendon transfer or joint fusion.
Knuckles (metacarpophalangeal joints): Joint replacement is almost always considered for this repair. Rheumatoid arthritis can cause serious damage and disability to your knuckles.
Second joint of your finger (proximal interphalangeal joints): Osteoarthritis commonly causes stiffness and loss of motion. Joint replacement or fusion are considered for these joints. Because you use these joints frequently, there is a chance your implant could wear out. In this case, your provider may recommend further surgery.
Top of finger joint (distal interphalangeal joints): Joint fusion is commonly used to treat arthritis in this joint.

What should I expect after hand surgery?

You may need a cast or splint after surgery to protect your hand while it’s healing. Your surgeon may refer you to a hand therapist. Your provider will likely prescribe pain medication to take for a limited amount of time to reduce discomfort.

What are the complications of hand surgery?

Complications of hand surgery include:

Lack of improvement in mobility.
Need to replace an implant that breaks or wears out.
Failure of bones to grow together or properly align (for fusion surgery).

How long does it take to recover from hand surgery?

Recovery time depends on many factors, including the severity of your condition, type of surgery you had, the skill of your surgeon and your compliance with therapy. Most people can return to their activities about three months after joint reconstruction surgery. Your team of caregivers can give you the best estimate of your particular recovery time.

Are there any other treatment options being investigated?

For osteoarthritis, some clinical research trials are underway in the U.S. exploring stem cell treatment. Early findings are encouraging.

Over the past decade, researchers developed many new medications for psoriatic arthritis and rheumatoid arthritis, with more studies underway.

Prevention

Can arthritis in the hand be prevented?

Arthritis can’t be prevented. However, you can watch for symptoms of arthritis as you age and see your healthcare provider if you notice changes in your joints. You can also take steps to control factors that you can control. Eat healthy to nourish your body and maintain a healthy weight. Being overweight puts more stress on your joints. Don’t smoke. Smoking increases your risk of arthritis.

Outlook / Prognosis

What outcome can I expect if I have arthritis in my hands?

There is no cure for arthritis. However, you can usually manage mild to moderate symptoms with a combination of medication and non-medication approaches. Surgery may be an option if other treatments fail or the arthritis in your hands is severe. Your healthcare provider will explain what outcome you can expect for your type and severity of arthritis, your age, other existing medical conditions and other factors.

Are glucosamine and chondroitin supplements helpful for treating osteoarthritis of the hand?

Supplements are not reviewed or approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). They are not required to undergo the same rigorous clinical trial methods that medications must undergo in the U.S. Some clinical trials show benefits with pain relief; however, there is no proof that these supplements slow the progression of osteoarthritis. If you plan to try these, always check with your healthcare provider before using supplements. These products may interfere with medications you currently take.

A note from Cleveland Clinic

Dull or burning joint pain, morning stiffness, swollen joints in your hand are all symptoms of arthritis. Many types of arthritis could affect your hands. Many treatment options are available depending on your exact arthritis type. Medications can reduce joint pain and swelling. Researchers are still working on ways to slow the progression of osteoarthritis. See your healthcare provider if you think you have arthritis in your hands. They will perform a complete exam and offer you a complete treatment plan, which includes hand exercises, use of hot and cold packs, other lifestyle tips and traditional treatments including medications, braces/splints, steroid injections and surgery.

Arthritis of the Hand: Symptoms, Types & Treatments

Overview

What is arthritis of the hand?

Arthritis of the hand causes pain and swelling, stiffness and deformity. As arthritis progresses, you can’t use your hands to manage everyday tasks as you once could.

Are there different types of arthritis that affect the hands?

Yes. There are many, but these are some of the more common ones.

Osteoarthritis, also known as “wear and tear” or degenerative arthritis, is the most common type of arthritis. It causes the cartilage (the smooth, cushion covering at the ends of your bones) to break down and wear away. The ends of bones then rub together without protection, which causes pain, stiffness and loss of movement over time. Osteoarthritis most commonly affects your wrist, joint at the base of your thumb and the middle and top (near fingernails) joints of your fingers. Long-term disease can cause bony lumps to form in the joints of your finger.
Rheumatoid arthritis is a chronic (long-term, ongoing) inflammatory disease that causes the joint lining to swell, causing pain, stiffness and loss of function. It’s an autoimmune disease (your body’s immune system attacks its own healthy tissue). A joint’s lining is called synovium. Your synovium produces the fluid (lubricant) that allows cartilage to easily slide against each other. Eventually the inflammation destroys the cartilage at the end of bones and then erodes the bone itself. The joints lose their shape and alignment as the tendons and ligaments surrounding the bone weaken and stretch. Rheumatoid arthritis commonly affects the small joints of your wrists, hands and fingers. It usually affects the same joints on both sides of your body. For instance, if arthritis affects finger joints one hand, it’s likely to affect the finger joints on your other hand too.
Psoriatic arthritis is a form of arthritis that affects your skin (psoriasis) and joints. Your fingers become swollen. You will also feel joint pain and morning stiffness. In many cases, it is similar to rheumatoid arthritis. However, it may only involve several fingers.

What parts of the hand are most affected by arthritis?

The four areas of your hand attacked by arthritis are:

The base of your thumb, where your thumb meets your wrist.
Your knuckles.
The middle joints of your fingers.
The top joint of your fingers nearest your nails.

Who gets arthritis in their hands?

You are more likely to get arthritis in your hands if:

You’re older. Osteoarthritis is commonly seen after age 50. Rheumatoid arthritis typically first appears between the age of 35 and 50.
You’re a woman.
You’re white.
You’re overweight.
You’ve had previous injuries to your hand. If you’ve dislocated or broken any joints in your hands or fingers, you are more likely to develop arthritis.
You’ve inherited genes that cause the development of arthritis.

Symptoms and Causes

What are the symptoms of arthritis in the hands?

Early symptoms include:

Dull or burning joint pain, appearing hours or a day after increased use of your hands.
Morning pain and stiffness in your hand(s).
Swollen joints in your hand(s).

If you’ve had arthritis in your hand(s) for some time:

Symptoms are present more often.
Pain may change from dull ache to sharp pain.
Pain may wake you up at night.
Pain may cause you to change the way you use your hand(s).
Tissue surrounding your affected joint may become red and tender to the touch.
You’ll feel grating, grinding, cracking or clicking (crepitus) when bending your fingers.
Your fingers can’t fully open and close.
Small bony nodules form on the middle joint of your fingers (called Bouchard’s nodes) or at the top joints of your fingers (called Heberden’s nodes).
Your finger joints become large and deformed and abnormally bent, leaving your hands weak and less able to accomplish everyday tasks.

Diagnosis and Tests

How is arthritis in the hand diagnosed?

Management and Treatment

How is arthritis in the hand treated?

Goals of treatment are to:

Decrease joint pain and stiffness.
Improve mobility and function.
Increase your quality of life.
In the case of rheumatoid or psoriatic arthritis, to slow the progression of the disease.

Treatment options include splinting/bracing, medications, injections, non-drug approaches and surgery.

Splinting/braces

Medications

Acetaminophen. This drug helps relieve pain.
Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. These drugs reduce pain and swelling in affected joints. Examples include ibuprofen, diclofenac, naproxen, celecoxib. Topical NSAIDs are the first topical treatment of choice for osteoarthritis.
Disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs. These slow the progression of rheumatoid arthritis and relieve symptoms. Examples include methotrexate, hydroxychloroquine, sulfasalazine (Azulfidine®), leflumonide (Arava®).
Corticosteroids. Taken by mouth, injected into your muscle or given by IV, these medications reduce inflammation and other symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis. Examples include prednisolone, prednisone, triamcinolone and methylprednisolone.
Immunosuppressive drugs. These slow the progression of rheumatoid arthritis and reduce damage to bone surrounding joints. Examples include azathioprine and cyclosporine.
Biologic agents. These can slow joint damage in rheumatoid arthritis. Examples include adalimumab (Humira®), etanercept (Enbrel®), infliximab (Remicade®), tofacitinib (Xeljanz®), tocilizumab (Actemra®), abatacept (Orencia®), rituximab (Rituxan®).

Steroid injections

Other management strategies

A complete treatment plan for arthritis of the hand includes these additional approaches:

Exercises — strengthening and stretching — to reduce symptoms and improve function. A hand therapist will work with you to prescribe the exercises best suited for your hand arthritis.
Hot and cold packs. Cold can help reduce pain and swelling. Heat can help reduce stiffness. Apply for no longer than 20 minutes at a time.
Rest. Regular rest periods can help relieve pain and inflammation in your joints.
Healthy eating and managing diabetes and cholesterol.
Weight loss if you’re overweight.
Smoking cessation. Smoking increases your risk of developing arthritis.
Occupational therapy to learn how to use self-help devices including those used to assist with dressing or preparing food in the kitchen.

Surgery

If nonsurgical treatments no longer provide relief and the cartilage at the ends of your bones has worn away, surgery may be an option. There are several approaches:

Joint fusion (arthrodesis): This surgery uses a plate and screws to keep the bones of your joint together. You’ll have a more stable, pain-free joint, but will have limited flexibility and movement.
Joint replacement (arthroplasty): Similar to other joint replacements, surgeons use an artificial implant made of plastic, ceramics, silicone or metals to replace your damaged joint. Keep in mind that hinged finger implants don’t mimic normal finger movement.
Tendon transfer: Tendons connect muscles to bones. The tendons that control your fingers attach to muscles in your palm and forearm. Ongoing inflammation from arthritis can cause tendons to rupture. If this happens, a portion of a healthy tendon can be used to restore your hand function.

What type of hand surgery is most commonly performed on the specific joints affected by arthritis?

Base of the thumb: Where your thumb and wrist join. Common surgical options include removing part or all of one of the trapezium bone (the wrist bone immediately below your thumb joint), tendon transfer or joint fusion.
Knuckles (metacarpophalangeal joints): Joint replacement is almost always considered for this repair. Rheumatoid arthritis can cause serious damage and disability to your knuckles.
Second joint of your finger (proximal interphalangeal joints): Osteoarthritis commonly causes stiffness and loss of motion. Joint replacement or fusion are considered for these joints. Because you use these joints frequently, there is a chance your implant could wear out. In this case, your provider may recommend further surgery.
Top of finger joint (distal interphalangeal joints): Joint fusion is commonly used to treat arthritis in this joint.

What should I expect after hand surgery?

What are the complications of hand surgery?

Complications of hand surgery include:

Lack of improvement in mobility.
Need to replace an implant that breaks or wears out.
Failure of bones to grow together or properly align (for fusion surgery).

How long does it take to recover from hand surgery?

Are there any other treatment options being investigated?

For osteoarthritis, some clinical research trials are underway in the U.S. exploring stem cell treatment. Early findings are encouraging.

Over the past decade, researchers developed many new medications for psoriatic arthritis and rheumatoid arthritis, with more studies underway.

Prevention

Can arthritis in the hand be prevented?

Outlook / Prognosis

What outcome can I expect if I have arthritis in my hands?

Are glucosamine and chondroitin supplements helpful for treating osteoarthritis of the hand?

A note from Cleveland Clinic

Arthritis of the Hand: Symptoms, Types & Treatments

Overview

What is arthritis of the hand?

Arthritis of the hand causes pain and swelling, stiffness and deformity. As arthritis progresses, you can’t use your hands to manage everyday tasks as you once could.

Are there different types of arthritis that affect the hands?

Yes. There are many, but these are some of the more common ones.

Osteoarthritis, also known as “wear and tear” or degenerative arthritis, is the most common type of arthritis. It causes the cartilage (the smooth, cushion covering at the ends of your bones) to break down and wear away. The ends of bones then rub together without protection, which causes pain, stiffness and loss of movement over time. Osteoarthritis most commonly affects your wrist, joint at the base of your thumb and the middle and top (near fingernails) joints of your fingers. Long-term disease can cause bony lumps to form in the joints of your finger.
Rheumatoid arthritis is a chronic (long-term, ongoing) inflammatory disease that causes the joint lining to swell, causing pain, stiffness and loss of function. It’s an autoimmune disease (your body’s immune system attacks its own healthy tissue). A joint’s lining is called synovium. Your synovium produces the fluid (lubricant) that allows cartilage to easily slide against each other. Eventually the inflammation destroys the cartilage at the end of bones and then erodes the bone itself. The joints lose their shape and alignment as the tendons and ligaments surrounding the bone weaken and stretch. Rheumatoid arthritis commonly affects the small joints of your wrists, hands and fingers. It usually affects the same joints on both sides of your body. For instance, if arthritis affects finger joints one hand, it’s likely to affect the finger joints on your other hand too.
Psoriatic arthritis is a form of arthritis that affects your skin (psoriasis) and joints. Your fingers become swollen. You will also feel joint pain and morning stiffness. In many cases, it is similar to rheumatoid arthritis. However, it may only involve several fingers.

What parts of the hand are most affected by arthritis?

The four areas of your hand attacked by arthritis are:

The base of your thumb, where your thumb meets your wrist.
Your knuckles.
The middle joints of your fingers.
The top joint of your fingers nearest your nails.

Who gets arthritis in their hands?

You are more likely to get arthritis in your hands if:

You’re older. Osteoarthritis is commonly seen after age 50. Rheumatoid arthritis typically first appears between the age of 35 and 50.
You’re a woman.
You’re white.
You’re overweight.
You’ve had previous injuries to your hand. If you’ve dislocated or broken any joints in your hands or fingers, you are more likely to develop arthritis.
You’ve inherited genes that cause the development of arthritis.

Symptoms and Causes

What are the symptoms of arthritis in the hands?

Early symptoms include:

Dull or burning joint pain, appearing hours or a day after increased use of your hands.
Morning pain and stiffness in your hand(s).
Swollen joints in your hand(s).

If you’ve had arthritis in your hand(s) for some time:

Symptoms are present more often.
Pain may change from dull ache to sharp pain.
Pain may wake you up at night.
Pain may cause you to change the way you use your hand(s).
Tissue surrounding your affected joint may become red and tender to the touch.
You’ll feel grating, grinding, cracking or clicking (crepitus) when bending your fingers.
Your fingers can’t fully open and close.
Small bony nodules form on the middle joint of your fingers (called Bouchard’s nodes) or at the top joints of your fingers (called Heberden’s nodes).
Your finger joints become large and deformed and abnormally bent, leaving your hands weak and less able to accomplish everyday tasks.

Diagnosis and Tests

How is arthritis in the hand diagnosed?

Management and Treatment

How is arthritis in the hand treated?

Goals of treatment are to:

Decrease joint pain and stiffness.
Improve mobility and function.
Increase your quality of life.
In the case of rheumatoid or psoriatic arthritis, to slow the progression of the disease.

Treatment options include splinting/bracing, medications, injections, non-drug approaches and surgery.

Splinting/braces

Medications

Acetaminophen. This drug helps relieve pain.
Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. These drugs reduce pain and swelling in affected joints. Examples include ibuprofen, diclofenac, naproxen, celecoxib. Topical NSAIDs are the first topical treatment of choice for osteoarthritis.
Disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs. These slow the progression of rheumatoid arthritis and relieve symptoms. Examples include methotrexate, hydroxychloroquine, sulfasalazine (Azulfidine®), leflumonide (Arava®).
Corticosteroids. Taken by mouth, injected into your muscle or given by IV, these medications reduce inflammation and other symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis. Examples include prednisolone, prednisone, triamcinolone and methylprednisolone.
Immunosuppressive drugs. These slow the progression of rheumatoid arthritis and reduce damage to bone surrounding joints. Examples include azathioprine and cyclosporine.
Biologic agents. These can slow joint damage in rheumatoid arthritis. Examples include adalimumab (Humira®), etanercept (Enbrel®), infliximab (Remicade®), tofacitinib (Xeljanz®), tocilizumab (Actemra®), abatacept (Orencia®), rituximab (Rituxan®).

Steroid injections

Other management strategies

A complete treatment plan for arthritis of the hand includes these additional approaches:

Exercises — strengthening and stretching — to reduce symptoms and improve function. A hand therapist will work with you to prescribe the exercises best suited for your hand arthritis.
Hot and cold packs. Cold can help reduce pain and swelling. Heat can help reduce stiffness. Apply for no longer than 20 minutes at a time.
Rest. Regular rest periods can help relieve pain and inflammation in your joints.
Healthy eating and managing diabetes and cholesterol.
Weight loss if you’re overweight.
Smoking cessation. Smoking increases your risk of developing arthritis.
Occupational therapy to learn how to use self-help devices including those used to assist with dressing or preparing food in the kitchen.

Surgery

If nonsurgical treatments no longer provide relief and the cartilage at the ends of your bones has worn away, surgery may be an option. There are several approaches:

Joint fusion (arthrodesis): This surgery uses a plate and screws to keep the bones of your joint together. You’ll have a more stable, pain-free joint, but will have limited flexibility and movement.
Joint replacement (arthroplasty): Similar to other joint replacements, surgeons use an artificial implant made of plastic, ceramics, silicone or metals to replace your damaged joint. Keep in mind that hinged finger implants don’t mimic normal finger movement.
Tendon transfer: Tendons connect muscles to bones. The tendons that control your fingers attach to muscles in your palm and forearm. Ongoing inflammation from arthritis can cause tendons to rupture. If this happens, a portion of a healthy tendon can be used to restore your hand function.

What type of hand surgery is most commonly performed on the specific joints affected by arthritis?

Base of the thumb: Where your thumb and wrist join. Common surgical options include removing part or all of one of the trapezium bone (the wrist bone immediately below your thumb joint), tendon transfer or joint fusion.
Knuckles (metacarpophalangeal joints): Joint replacement is almost always considered for this repair. Rheumatoid arthritis can cause serious damage and disability to your knuckles.
Second joint of your finger (proximal interphalangeal joints): Osteoarthritis commonly causes stiffness and loss of motion. Joint replacement or fusion are considered for these joints. Because you use these joints frequently, there is a chance your implant could wear out. In this case, your provider may recommend further surgery.
Top of finger joint (distal interphalangeal joints): Joint fusion is commonly used to treat arthritis in this joint.

What should I expect after hand surgery?

What are the complications of hand surgery?

Complications of hand surgery include:

Lack of improvement in mobility.
Need to replace an implant that breaks or wears out.
Failure of bones to grow together or properly align (for fusion surgery).

How long does it take to recover from hand surgery?

Are there any other treatment options being investigated?

For osteoarthritis, some clinical research trials are underway in the U.S. exploring stem cell treatment. Early findings are encouraging.

Over the past decade, researchers developed many new medications for psoriatic arthritis and rheumatoid arthritis, with more studies underway.

Prevention

Can arthritis in the hand be prevented?

Outlook / Prognosis

What outcome can I expect if I have arthritis in my hands?

Are glucosamine and chondroitin supplements helpful for treating osteoarthritis of the hand?

A note from Cleveland Clinic

Finger Joint Pain and Inflammation

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) can affect any joint in your body, including those in your hands and fingers. You may have:

Hand pain, finger pain, swelling, and stiffness
Hand joints and finger joints that are warm and tender to the touch
The same joints affected on both sides of your body (both wrists, for instance)
Misshapen finger joints
Carpal tunnel symptoms such as numbness and tingling of the hands
Fatigue
Pain and stiffness that last for more than an hour when you wake up

Causes

Scientists don’t know what causes RA precisely. Most experts feel that a genetically predisposed person is exposed to a triggering event ( like an infection) that starts the chronic inflammation.

Hormones may also play a role. For instance, RA is more common in women than in men. It tends to improve with pregnancy. But it may get worse after the baby is born.

What’s the Treatment?

Your doctor will make a plan based on your needs, including:

Medications
Rest and exercise
Splints and special arthritis aids that take pressure off of painful joints
Managing stress
Avoiding foods that trigger inflammation
Eating foods that curb inflammation, such as omega-3 fatty acids found in fish such as salmon or in flax oil
Regular medical checkups
Physical therapy
Surgery if joints are severely damaged

There are different types of drugs for RA. You would take some of them for pain and others to slow or stop the disease.

How can I ease hand and finger joint pain?

Regular exercise is very important to make your hands and fingers more flexible. You also need to rest painful joints. It helps to use hand or finger splints to ease pressure if your RA flares up.

To exercise your hands and fingers, you can use a soft foam ball like a Nerf ball (not a hard tennis ball). Squeeze it and then relax your hand muscles.

Ask an occupational therapist about gadgets and devices that may help make everyday activities easier, at home or on the job. For instance:

Use hook and loop fasteners to replace buttons on clothing.
Add accessories to doorknobs for easier turning.
Use lamp switches that require just a touch to the lamp base rather than twisting a small knob switch.
Try a long-handled shoehorn to put on your shoes so you don’t have to bend over and stretch your hands.
Use lightweight household utensils, pots, pans, cups, and dishes.
Put foam padding around your pen or pencil. These are available at most office supply stores.

Learn about more hand and finger exercises you can do for RA

Can moist heat or ice help RA pain?

Both of these simple methods can ease RA pain and stiffness.

Use a warm, moist compress (or towel or heating pad) on your fingers and hands for 15 minutes before you exercise.

To reduce swelling, use ice packs. Put an ice pack on the painful joint for 10 to 15 minutes at a time.

You may want to switch between moist heat and ice packs. Experiment to find out what works best for you, and then make it part of your routine before and after exercise. Read more about heat and cold therapy for arthritis pain.

What is a swan-neck deformity?

This happens when the base of the finger and the outermost joint bend, while the middle joint straightens. Over time, this imbalance of the finger joints can result in the crooked “swan-neck” position. Rheumatoid arthritis can cause it.

A swan-neck deformity can make it almost impossible to bend the affected finger normally. It can make it hard to button shirts, grip a glass, or pinch with the fingers.

Treatment may include:

Finger splints or ring splints
Surgery to realign the joints or fuse the joints so they work better

What is a boutonniere deformity?

Boutonniere deformity, also called buttonhole deformity, can happen due to rheumatoid arthritis.

The middle finger joint will bend toward the palm while the outer finger joint may bend opposite the palm. It may be the result of chronic inflammation of the finger’s middle joint.

Treatment may include splinting to keep the middle joint extended. Some cases need surgery.

Get more information on other RA joint deformities.

6 Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) Symptoms & Signs

4. You just don’t feel well, and you may notice bumps on your elbows. With RA, you may have flu-like symptoms, such as low-grade fevers, stiffness, and fatigue from inflammation. Occasionally, small tender bumps or nodules under the skin will develop with RA, often near the back of the elbow. These are called rheumatoid nodules.

5. Your joints are particularly stiff for more than an hour in the morning. With rheumatoid arthritis, you may find it difficult to completely make a fist. You may have unusually tender swelling on the top of your wrists along with stiffness. If your elbows are involved, it may be difficult for you to straighten them completely. Usually, you won’t have swelling or pain in your hip joints early in the course of RA. Painful hip joints more often are due to OA, and most people feel the pain in the front of the hip or in the groin region.

6. Certain blood tests may help determine whether you have RA. These are usually ordered by your health provider, but there are companies that allow you to order these tests yourself (Hint: Google search order your own lab tests). Four important tests are usually ordered for an RA diagnosis. Two measure proteins in your blood called antibodies: Rf (rheumatoid factor) and CCP (anti-cyclic citrullinated peptide). The other two measure inflammation: ESR (erythrocyte sedimentation rate) and CRP (C-reactive protein). With RA, at least one Rf or CCP test must be positive and at least one CRP or ESR test must be abnormal.

RELATED: Don’t miss these lifestyle tips from people who have RA. Find answers on Tippi.

ACRs Point System to Confirm an RA Diagnosis

The American College of Rheumatology (ACR) has developed a point system to help confirm the diagnosis of rheumatoid arthritis; your score has to be at least six points for a definitive diagnosis of RA. Here’s a simplified summary of how the points are measured:

The number of Swollen or Tender Joints Can Count for up to 5 Points

Two or more large joints (1 point)
One to three small joints (2 points)
4 to 10 small joints (3 points)
10 joints with at least one small joint (5 points)

Blood Tests Should Be Positive, and Give Additional Points

At least one positive Rf or CCP (2 to 3 points depending on how high)
And at least one abnormal CRP or abnormal ESR (1 point)

One additional point is added if you’ve had symptoms for at least six weeks. Many doctors realize that it’s possible to have RA and not meet all the criteria. You should have a detailed discussion with your doctor about whether you should start treatment. Although current RA drugs are very effective, they sometimes have serious side effects.

RA Goals: Early Detection and Treatment

We now know that some forms of RA are very aggressive, and much permanent joint damage can occur within the first 12 months. RA cannot be cured yet, but joint damage can be slowed and sometimes stopped. Understanding the difference between OA aches and pains and early signs of RA is critical to saving your joints from painful damage and disability. If you’re having trouble explaining your joint pain and possible arthritis symptoms to your doctor, try writing them down in a journal, or visit a website dedicated to pain management, such as my website, PainSpot.com.

Douglas Roberts, MD, has been practicing rheumatology since 1990. He is an associate professor of medicine at the School of Medicine at the University of California in Davis, and an attending physician at UCD Medical Center. He created the PainSpot.com website to help people with painful joints understand possible causes, and get help for serious arthritic conditions, such as rheumatoid arthritis.

Rheumatoid Arthritis of Hand

Used with permission from American Society for Surgery of the Hand.

What is arthritis?

Arthritis literally means “inflamed joint.” Normally a joint consists of two smooth, cartilage-covered bone surfaces that fit together as a matched set and that move smoothly against one other. Arthritis results when these smooth surfaces become irregular and don’t fit together well anymore and essentially “wear out.” Arthritis can affect any joint in the body, but it is most noticeable when it affects the hands and fingers. Each hand has 19 bones, plus 8 small bones and the two forearm bones that form the wrist. Arthritis of the hand can be both painful and disabling. The most common forms of arthritis in the hand are osteoarthritis, post-traumatic arthritis (after an injury), and rheumatoid arthritis. Other causes of arthritis of the hand are infection, gout, and psoriasis.

About Rheumatoid Arthritis of the Hand

Rheumatoid arthritis affects the cells that line and normally lubricate the joints (synovial tissue). This is a systemic condition (can affect the whole body), which means that it may affect multiple joints, usually on both sides of the body. The joint lining (synovium) becomes inflamed and swollen and erodes the cartilage and bone. The swollen tissue may also stretch the surrounding ligaments, which are the connective tissues that hold the bones together, resulting in deformity and instability. The inflammation may also spread to the tendons, which are the rope-like structures that link muscles to bones. This can result in stretching out of and ruptures of the tendons. Rheumatoid arthritis of the hand is most common in the wrist and the finger knuckles (the MP and PIP joints (see Figure 1).

Signs and symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis of the hand

Stiffness, swelling, and pain are symptoms common to all forms of arthritis in the hand. In rheumatoid arthritis, some joints may be more swollen than others. There is often a sausage-shaped (fusiform) swelling of the finger. Other symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis of the hand include:

A soft lump over the back of the hand that moves with the tendons that straighten the fingers
A creaking sound (crepitus) during movement
A shift in the position of the fingers as they drift away from the direction of the thumb (see Figure 2)
Swelling and inflammation of the tendons that bend the fingers, resulting in clicking or triggering of the finger as it bends, and sometimes causing numbness and tingling in the fingers (carpal tunnel syndrome)
Rupture of tendons with loss of ability to straighten or bend certain fingers or the thumb
Unstable joints in the wrist, fingers, and thumb
Deformity in which the middle joint of the finger becomes bent and the end joint hyperextended (Boutonnière deformity (see Figure 3)
Hyperextension (sway-back) at the middle joint of the finger associated with a bent fingertip (swan-neck deformity (see Figure 3)

How arthritis of the hand is diagnosed

Your doctor will examine you and determine whether you have similar symptoms in other joints and assess the impact of the arthritis on your life and activities. The clinical appearance of the hands and fingers helps to diagnose the type of arthritis. X-rays will also show certain characteristics of rheumatoid arthritis, such as narrowing of the joint space, swelling and diminished bone density near the joints, and erosions of the bone. If your doctor suspects rheumatoid arthritis, he or she may request blood or other lab tests to confirm the diagnosis.

Treatment of rheumatoid arthritis

Treatment is designed to relieve pain and restore function. If you have rheumatoid arthritis in your hands, medications can help decrease inflammation, relieve pain and slow the progression of the disease. Anti-inflammatory medications, oral steroids, and/or cortisone injections may be used. Several disease-modifying treatments are now available, including anti-malarial drugs, methotrexate, cyclosporine, gold, and other new drugs (remicade, enbrel) that help suppress the body’s immune system to reduce the inflammation and pain. A rheumatologist will often prescribe and monitor these types of medications. Your physician may also refer you to a hand therapist for exercises, splints, treatments such as paraffin (warm wax) baths, and instruction on how to use your hands in ways that may help relieve pain and pressure and also protect your joints. Adaptive devices may help you cope with the activities of daily living.

Rheumatoid arthritis often affects the tendons as well as the joints. The tendons that become inflamed may trigger (click) or rupture. If this happens, you may be unable to bend or straighten your fingers or to grip properly. In certain cases, specific preventive surgery may be recommended. Preventive surgery may include removing nodules, releasing pressure on tendons by removing the inflamed tissue and degenerated, rough bone that may scrape the tendons, and reinforcing the tendons. If a tendon rupture has occurred, a hand surgeon may be able to repair it with a tendon transfer or graft, in addition to performing these other procedures.

Surgery to treat the arthritic joints includes removal of inflamed joint linings, joint replacements, joint fusions, and in some cases, removal of damaged bone. The specific procedure(s) depends on a variety of factors, including the particular joint(s) involved, the degree of damage present, the condition of adjacent joints, and your own needs. Your hand surgeon can help you decide on the most appropriate treatment for you.

Unfortunately, there is no cure for rheumatoid arthritis. However, surgical procedures can often help correct deformities, relieve pain, and improve function. Optimal care entails a team approach between the rheumatologist, hand surgeon, hand therapist, and patient. It is particularly important that surgical intervention be appropriately timed to rebalance the hand and preserve the joints for as long as possible, before the development of more severe deformities has occurred.

Rheumatoid arthritis – Symptoms – NHS

The main symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis are joint pain, swelling and stiffness. It may also cause more general symptoms, and inflammation in other parts of the body.

The symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis often develop gradually over several weeks, but some cases can progress quickly over a number of days.

The symptoms vary from person to person. They may come and go, or change over time. You may experience flares when your condition deteriorates and your symptoms become worse.

Symptoms affecting the joints

Rheumatoid arthritis mainly affects the joints. It can cause problems in any joint in the body, although the small joints in the hands and feet are often the first to be affected.

Rheumatoid arthritis typically affects the joints symmetrically (both sides of the body at the same time and to the same extent), but this is not always the case.

Pain

The joint pain associated with rheumatoid arthritis is usually a throbbing and aching pain. It is often worse in the mornings and after a period of inactivity.

Stiffness

Joints affected by rheumatoid arthritis can feel stiff. For example, if your hands are affected, you may not be able to fully bend your fingers or form a fist.

Like joint pain, the stiffness is often worse in the morning or after a period of inactivity.

Morning stiffness that is a symptom of another type of arthritis, called osteoarthritis, usually wears off within 30 minutes of getting up, but morning stiffness in rheumatoid arthritis often lasts longer than this.

Swelling, warmth and redness

The lining of joints affected by rheumatoid arthritis become inflamed, which can cause the joints to swell, and become hot and tender to touch.

In some people, firm swellings called rheumatoid nodules can also develop under the skin around affected joints.

Rheumatoid Arthritis – CMT Clinic

Rheumatoid arthritis is an inflammation of the joints caused by autoimmune causes. In this disease, the immune system, designed to protect the body, begins to attack its own cells and tissues. First of all, small joints of the hand, feet, elbows, knees, neck, ankle suffer from it.

Rheumatoid arthritis leads to the gradual destruction of joints. If the disease is left untreated, it can lead not only to constant pain, but also to loss of mobility, and subsequently – and disability.

Reasons:
• genetic predisposition;
• stress;
• consequences of viral diseases;
• hypothermia;
• poisoning;
• failures of the immune system.

Early symptoms:
• joint pain, especially in the morning;
• loss of flexibility;
• swelling of the joints;
• local temperature rise;
• redness.

At a later stage, add:
• an increase in the size of the joints, the formation of nodes;
• deformation of the joints, curvature;
• persistent pain;
• loss of mobility.

Important! Rheumatoid arthritis is insidious. For several years, it can manifest itself only with a little discomfort in the morning. But having begun to develop, in a few weeks he is able to pass into a difficult phase, deprive a person of mobility, and make him disabled.Therefore, at the first appearance of joint pain, you should consult a doctor.

Diagnostics

When diagnosing, it is important to distinguish rheumatoid arthritis from other types of joint damage, such as bacterial inflammation or trauma. These lesions have the same symptoms, but are treated with completely different methods. To do this, it is necessary to pass blood tests, urine tests, in some cases – a smear from the throat.

In the CMT-Clinic, all tests can be taken in one place, without queues, at any time convenient for the patient.Results will be available the same day, allowing you to start treatment earlier.

Treatment

Rheumatoid arthritis is treated with medication. Some of the drugs are aimed at relieving symptoms – inflammation, swelling and pain. The basis of conservative treatment is to reduce the body’s autoimmune response and restore the normal functioning of the immune system.

Medicines can be used in the form of ointments, tablets or injections. The type and dosage of drugs depends on the individual characteristics of the patient.

Treatment of rheumatoid arthritis is a long and painstaking process that can take months or years. And the role of the patient is very important in it, who must strictly follow the doctor’s recommendations.

Physiotherapeutic procedures are prescribed as additional methods for rheumatoid arthritis, including:

• magneto-laser therapy;
• shock wave therapy;
• ozone therapy;
• plasmolifting.

In the late stage of the disease, the joints are destroyed to such an extent that it is impossible to save them. In this case, the patient is sent for a surgical operation to replace the joint with an artificial one.

90,000 symptoms, treatment and prevention of the disease

Arthritis: symptoms, treatment and prevention of the disease

Arthritis is a disease that causes inflammation and pain in the joints. Joint arthritis is manifested by swelling and changes in the appearance of the joint.The most common types of arthritis are osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis.

Osteoarthritis is an inflammatory arthritis that develops relatively slowly, over several months or years. Most often, osteoarthritis affects the knee joints, the hip joint, and the joints of the hand.

Rheumatoid arthritis is a type of inflammatory arthritis that also includes gout and inflammatory arthritis. Rheumatoid arthritis is a chronic connective tissue disorder that is autoimmune in nature and predominantly affects small joints, such as the joints of the hand.

The disease occurs in patients aged 35-50 years, and may also be in younger patients. Recent studies prove a genetic predisposition to rheumatoid arthritis. The consequences of arthritis can be joint deformation and impairment of their function.

The following are the symptoms of arthritis and general signs of the disease:

enlarged lymph nodes;
marked exhaustion in the patient, fatigue;
slight increase in body temperature due to inflammatory processes;
joint stiffness in the morning, lasts about an hour;
An important feature that characterizes rheumatoid arthritis is symmetrical joint damage: the right and left elbow or knee joints are affected by arthritis at the same time.

Rheumatoid arthritis is also characterized by lesions of the periarticular tissues, inflammation of the tendons, damage to the ligamentous apparatus, resulting in increased mobility and deformation of the ligaments.

Medicines for the treatment of arthritis

For the treatment of arthritis, drugs of three groups are used: non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, basic drugs and glucocorticosteroids.

The non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs used to treat arthritis are meloxicam, nimesulide and celecoxib.They act as pain relievers, relieve inflammation and have minimal side effects.

In this case, the dosage of the admission is prescribed by the doctor, excluding the possibility of combining two or more drugs from this group, since the effectiveness of this combination will not increase, but the likelihood of side effects will increase.

Basic drugs for the treatment of arthritis are used immediately after diagnosis. The basic therapy for rheumatoid arthritis includes the following drugs: D-penicillamine, methotrexate, sulfasalazine, cyclophosphamide, aminoquinoline drugs, cyclosporin A (sandimmune), azathioprine, enbrel (etanercept), remicade (inflixenzimab), phloblogenzimab.

Ineffective drugs from this list should be replaced after 2-3 months of administration, or used in combination with low doses of hormones (the third group of drugs). After six months, a course of effective basic therapy should be developed. To do this, it is necessary to carefully monitor the possible side effects of drugs and changes in the course of the disease.

Hormone therapy and glucocorticosteroids are used to treat acute forms of arthritis with high inflammatory activity.Also, hormones are used as anti-inflammatory therapy with low efficacy of other drugs.

The hormonal preparation diprospan is used in some cases for local therapy with prolonged action.

Ointments and gels based on non-steroidal drugs are also used as local therapy: ibuprofen, ketoprofen, diclofenac, piroxicam. They are applied in the form of applications to the affected joints to relieve inflammation. To enhance the effect, they can be combined with applications of dimethyl sulfoxide (solution diluted 1: 2).

Adjunctive therapy in the treatment of arthritis

An important measure in the treatment of arthritis is the restoration of calcium balance in the body in order to reduce its excretion from the body. To do this, the patient must follow a diet with a high calcium content, take calcium supplements with vitamin D.

Patients with rheumatoid arthritis are recommended to carry out annual spa treatment, but only in the absence of a phase of exacerbation of inflammatory processes.

Laser therapy is successfully used in the early stages of treatment. The recommended course is no more than fifteen procedures. To reduce pain, cryotherapy is used in a course of 15-20 procedures.

Spa treatment of patients with rheumatoid arthritis is recommended to be carried out annually outside the exacerbation phase.

Diagnostics of rheumatoid arthritis – to pass the analysis in SZCDM

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a systemic autoimmune inflammatory disease of the connective tissue of the joints.Pathological processes lead to the development of irreversible changes. One or more joints may be affected. As a rule, small joints of the hands and feet are affected, as well as knee, elbow, jaw, hip and cervical spine joints.

As a result of the progression of the disease, the joints lose their mobility, and the patient’s quality of life decreases. The situation is aggravated by the fact that the cause of the disease has not yet been established. It is not yet possible to stop the process.In total, up to 1% of the population in the world is susceptible to rheumatoid arthritis, of which 3/4 are women. The average age of the onset of the disease is 40 years. The disease manifests itself during a period of severe emotional stress, under the influence of unfavorable environmental conditions, after an injury, an infection. RA is characterized by early disability, in 70% of cases. Among the main causes of death are infectious complications and renal failure.

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Causes of rheumatoid arthritis

Currently, there is no reliable data on the causes of the development of the disease.There are several more likely versions supported by most of the medical community. The most popular of these is that RA causes several factors that are present in the patient’s history at the same time.

Genetic predisposition to autoimmune disorders.
The presence of MHC class II antigen (observed in most patients).
Infectious agents: paramyxoviruses, hepatoviruses, retroviruses.
The presence of titers of antibodies to the Epstein-Barr virus (found in 80% of patients).

Thus, the risk of developing rheumatoid arthritis is higher in women aged 35-40 years and older. It increases the chances of having close relatives with a similar diagnosis, as well as past illnesses such as measles, hepatitis B, lichen, herpes, mumps.

Any changes in the immune system are capable of activating the pathological process, in which an attack on its own connective tissue begins.Among the triggering factors are frequent hypothermia, hyperinsolation (sunstroke), prolonged intoxication, viral and bacterial infections. Medication intake, disruption of the endocrine glands, prolonged stress and depression may be affected.

Development of rheumatoid arthritis

When exposed to one or more factors in the body, an inadequate response of the immune system is triggered. Protective cells – lymphocytes stop diagnosing and destroying foreign microorganisms, their own healthy cells become their target.Substances are produced that cause erosive and destructive damage to the synovial membrane of the joints.

RA moves in the following stages:

Synovitis. Cells of tissue origin (synoviocytes) begin to perform the function of macrophages, i.e., they digest the remains of dead cells and foreign particles. As a result, pro-inflammatory cytokines are produced, which cause the activation of T-helpers – cells that stimulate enhanced immune function.
Osteoporosis. A decrease in bone density is caused by activated macrophages and monocytes through the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines, including IL-1. This cytokine activates osteoclasts, dissolving and degrading mineral compounds and collagen.
The composition of blood and synovial fluid changes. The level of plasma cells that produce immunoglobulins increases.The concentration of IgM and IgG to the altered Fc region of IgG (rheumatoid factors) increases.
Proliferative stage. At this time, pathological processes cause damage to cartilage and bones. The capillaries of the synovial tissue grow. Synoviocytes lead to the formation of pannus – an aggressive granulation tissue prone to tumor-like growth with penetration into the cartilage and articular part of the bone.

The last, proliferative stage is characterized by the formation of erosion.Without treatment, these processes can occur already several months after the onset of the disease. Strengthening angiogenesis promotes the germination of blood vessels into the cartilage, penetration deep into the cartilage tissue of bacteria.

Classification

According to ICD-10, the disease is classified into the following groups:

1. Seropositive RA:

Felty’s syndrome.
RA with retraction of other organs and systems.
Unspecified forms.

2. Youth RA.

3. Other PA:

Seronegative type.
Still’s disease.
Rheumatoid bursitis.
Rheumatoid nodule.
Other specified and unspecified arthritis.

According to clinical manifestations, the disease is divided into the primary stage (less than 6 months have passed since the onset of the disease), early (from 6 months to a year), advanced (from 1 year) and late (more than 2 years). Distinguish between rheumatoid arthritis by the degree of loss of functionality, immunological factors, activity of the course of the disease, instrumental characteristics.

For doctors, immunological characteristics are of the greatest importance. The presence of rheumatoid factor in the blood or the presence of anti-CCP (seropositive and seronegative RA). The results of analyzes that reveal these values allow you to correctly plan therapy.

Symptoms

The initial stage of the disease practically does not have pronounced symptoms. Over time, slight stiffness appears in the affected joints.As a rule, it occurs in the morning, since the secretion of glucocorticoids decreases. It is difficult for the patient to move, movements are inhibited. Sometimes it takes help to get up. But, after 30 minutes – an hour everything returns to normal. The clinic can be deployed over several months or even years, gradually increasing.

Primary symptoms should also include:

periodic joint pain;
loss of appetite;
increased fatigue.

The second stage is characterized by rapid cell division, compaction of the synovium. Symmetrical swelling of the joints is noted, the skin in the affected areas has an increased temperature. Sudden pain is also observed, aggravated by active movement. To pass completely, they need the same rest time that was spent on movement.

The third stage – the active phase of inflammation with the involvement of cartilage and bones.The affected joints begin to deform, leading to increased pain and loss of motor function.

Rheumatoid arthritis often has concomitant joint diseases, and blurred symptoms complicate differential diagnosis. Among the more useful are rheumatism, osteoarthritis and other systemic pathologies of the connective tissue. The only specific manifestation of rheumatoid arthritis can be called nodules, the so-called subcutaneous formations on the extensor surface.They can be detected by palpation.

Extra-articular manifestations of RA

Pathological processes caused by rheumatoid arthritis, occurring outside the joints, are found in a third of patients. These symptoms also complicate the diagnosis and influence the choice of treatment tactics. Among them:

Cutaneous vasculitis (ulcerative necrotic, livedo angiitis, nail bed infarction).
Sjogren’s syndrome (damage to the salivary and lacrimal glands).
Eye lesions (scleritis – inflammation of the deep layer of the eye, episcleritis – inflammation of the connective tissue of the eye).
Interstitial lung disease (inflammation of the alveoli, pulmonary capillaries and other tissues).

As a result of the inflammation accompanying rheumatoid arthritis, pathologies from the cardiovascular, respiratory, and nervous systems can occur.The most serious complication is AA amyloidosis, which causes renal failure.

Separately, it is worth highlighting various associated diseases that are not directly caused, but associated with RA. This ischemic heart disease, thromboembolism, anemia, neuropsychiatric disorders, among which depression deserves attention. Like any other autoimmune disease with chronic inflammation, rheumatoid arthritis affects psychological well-being. The patient is recommended to undergo psychological courses and a comprehensive, comprehensive examination.

Diagnostics

First of all, the doctor examines the clinical criteria for rheumatoid arthritis. The disease should be suspected in patients with symmetric polyarthritis. Damage to the wrist, II and III metacarpophalangeal joints is of great importance. It is necessary to exclude hepatitis C. Pay attention to the presence or absence of changes in skin color in the inflamed joints, the presence of deformities of the extremities, tendosynovitis of the flexors or extensors of the fingers.Diagnostics also includes laboratory and instrumental results.

Laboratory research

The tasks of the laboratory include blood tests for RF, anti-CCP, ESR, CRP. The most progressive analysis is the titer of antibodies to ACCP, anti-CCP, anti-CCP.

RF – analysis for antibodies to human gamma globulin is found in 70% of patients with RA. However, the indicator is not critical, since titers can be detected in other viral diseases and pathologies of the connective tissue.Analysis for RF confirms rheumatoid arthritis in combination with a positive test for ADCP.
ADC – test with high sensitivity reaching 86%. In combination with the RF titer, it indicates RA. However, it is necessary to exclude hepatitis C, since ACCP and RF titer can be present in this viral infection.

Additional tests include a biochemical blood test to determine the activity of inflammation.A general blood test to detect anemia, an immunological study to establish the presence of rheumatoid factor (IgM antibodies).

Instrumental diagnostics

X-ray examination. In the first months of the disease, radiography can only show soft tissue edema. Marginal erosion, osteoporosis, narrowing of the joint space are detected by the end of the first year of the disease or later.
Magnetic resonance imaging.The most informative research method at the moment. It allows you to identify early signs of inflammation, detects erosion and damage to the subchondral bone.
Study of synovial fluid. The procedure is carried out with exudative changes in the joints, to differentiate RA from arthritis of a different nature. Indicates the development of rheumatoid arthritis turbidity, yellowish color of the synovial fluid. The leukocyte count increases to 50,000 / μl.

When making a diagnosis, it is important to exclude similar diseases: microcrystalline arthritis, sarcoidosis, reactive and psoriatic arthritis, systemic lupus erythematosus, osteoarthritis and other diseases.

Treatment

Therapy is aimed at curbing the development of the disease, reducing inflammation and preventing joint deformities and loss of their functionality.The following medications are prescribed:

Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory substances. They reduce pain to some extent, slow down the progression of RA. May include inhibitors and blockers for IL-1, IL-6, TNF-alpha. They do not block the development of erosion and disease, therefore they are used as auxiliary means.
Glucocorticoids. Prescribed in combination with anti-inflammatory drugs.Allows to control the development of severe monoarticular and oligoarticular symptoms. They are not used on a regular basis as they often cause unpleasant metabolic effects.
Basic drugs. Essential medicines that can significantly slow the progression of arthritis. Reception courses from several weeks to several months. The drugs differ in chemical composition and pharmacology. They are combined with each other to select the optimal treatment with the greatest effect.According to statistics, ⅔ of patients who have completed the course experience significant improvement, more than half of them achieve complete remission. However, one should be aware of the toxicity of these drugs. The doctor and the patient must weigh all the risks, conduct regular monitoring of the patient’s condition.

Thus, the main treatment includes basic drugs, in particular methotrexate, biologic antagonists, immunomodulatory drugs. Other methods of supportive therapy include physiotherapy, therapeutic exercises, a balanced combination of exercise and relaxation.Avoiding alcohol and smoking can prolong the patient’s life. You can correct the curvature of the joints with the help of surgical correction.

Forecast

Rheumatoid arthritis shortens a person’s life expectancy for a number of reasons. The risk of heart disease is doubled. It is caused by the presence of chronic inflammation. The situation can be aggravated by comorbidities, for example, diabetes, obesity, alcoholism.

With the development of AA amyloidosis, despite treatment, the average life expectancy of a patient is about 10 years from the onset of the disease.Without therapy, the period is calculated in several years. Renal failure is a common cause of death. On average, RA shortens life by 3 to 7 years due to the high risk of infections and gastrointestinal bleeding.

Drug therapy is also not perfect. It can cause concomitant diseases, become one of the factors in the development of malignant neoplasms. The criteria for an unfavorable prognosis include:

early (up to 4 months.) X-ray changes in the joints;
a persistent increase in the erythrocyte sedimentation rate;
constant involvement of new joints;
carriage of HLA-DR4 antigens.

About 10% of patients are doomed to severe disability with loss of self-care skills. The most severe rheumatoid arthritis occurs in women who smoke, representatives of the Caucasian race.

Advantages of the laboratories of SZTsDM JSC

In the laboratory terminals of the North-West Center for Evidence-Based Medicine, tests can be taken to diagnose rheumatoid arthritis and other autoimmune diseases. Among the advantages of SZTsDM JSC:

New modern equipment,
Qualified and friendly staff,
Fast availability of results and convenient methods of obtaining them.

Laboratories are located in Pskov, Veliky Novgorod, Kaliningrad, St. Petersburg and other cities of the Leningrad region. You can take tests at any of them without reference to residence and registration.

Analyzes

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Rheumatoid arthritis – treatment, symptoms, causes, diagnosis

Arthritis is a general term that means inflammation in a joint.Joint inflammation is characterized by redness, swelling, and pain in the joint area. Rheumatoid arthritis is a type of chronic arthritis that typically affects the joints on both sides of the body (such as the hands, wrists, or knees). Symmetry of the lesion is one of the criteria that differentiates rheumatoid arthritis from other types of arthritis. In addition to joint damage, rheumatoid arthritis can cause abnormalities in the eyes, skin, lungs, heart, or nerves.Rheumatoid arthritis affects people in different ways. In some cases, joint damage occurs gradually over several years. In other cases, rheumatoid arthritis progresses rapidly, without long periods of remission. On average, rheumatoid arthritis occurs in 1% of the population. And although in women it occurs 2-3 times more often than in men, the manifestations of rheumatoid arthritis in men are much more pronounced than in women. Typically, rheumatoid arthritis occurs in middle age, but is common in the elderly and children.

The exact cause of rheumatoid arthritis is unknown, but the disease is suspected to arise from a combination of genetic, environmental, and hormonal factors. In rheumatoid arthritis, some factors serve as triggers that cause an autoimmune reaction in the body and affect the tissues of the joints. A certain role of smoking as a factor provoking the immune system is also not excluded.

Studies have not yet been able to identify the role of genetic factors in the development of rheumatoid arthritis.But, nevertheless, in some patients it is possible to identify a genetic predisposition to this disease.

As soon as the immune system starts working against its own tissues, lymphocytes migrate from the blood to the joints and the tissue lining the joint, called the synovium. There, the lymphocytes produce substances that cause inflammation. The increased number of lymphocytes and inflammatory factors causes joint irritation and wear of cartilage tissue, inflammation of the joint capsule.Inflammation of the bursa causes excessive secretion of synovial fluid. As the thinning of the cartilage occurs, the joint space decreases, and conditions arise for the friction of the bone surfaces against each other.

Since the inflammatory process involves all the tissues of the joint, the inflammation can invade the adjacent bone surfaces, which can manifest itself as damage to the bone tissue (erosion). All these disorders lead to pain, swelling and a local increase in temperature in the joint area.Rheumatoid arthitis is characterized by a positive reaction to the rheumatic factor. But this test can be positive for other diseases as well.

People with rheumatoid arthritis may have mild anemia. Blood tests may also show an increased erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) or an increased level. C reactive protein – which are markers of inflammation.

Some people with rheumatoid arthritis may also be positive for anti-nuclear antibodies.

Symptoms

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic disease. Symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis can come and go and are different for each patient. Some patients have long periods of remission. During remission, rheumatoid arthritis is inactive and symptoms may be minimal or absent. In other patients, symptoms may be constant for months.

Although various organs may be involved in rheumatoid arthritis, the joints are primarily affected.With the onset or exacerbation of the disease, inflammation of the joints occurs. Inflammation is the body’s natural response to infection or other factors, but in rheumatoid arthritis, inflammation occurs spontaneously and for no apparent reason. Unlike osteoarthritis, the symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis are more severe (severe pain syndrome, fatigue, stiffness, fever, impaired appetite).

With rheumatoid arthritis, there may be pain and stiffness in the hands, knees, ankles, legs and neck.The pain usually occurs on both sides, but sometimes it also occurs on one side. Thus, there is a symmetrical involvement of the joints in the inflammatory process. The inflammatory process in the joints interferes with normal physical activity (driving a car, walking and movement necessary for daily activities).

Stiffness in movement in the morning may quickly disappear or disturb for several hours. Feeling tired is sometimes debilitating. The inflammatory process can cause decreased appetite and weight loss.In addition, there may be an increase in the temperature of the rash on the skin or involvement in the inflammatory process of the lungs or heart. These symptoms appear when the area of the autoimmune process expands, and outside the joints.

Most common symptoms of joint inflammation:

Stiffness (stiffness). The joint is hard to move and the range of motion is limited. Unlike other types of arthritis, where there is also stiffness in the joints, the duration of stiffness in rheumatoid arthritis is longer (more than an hour) until the range of motion is normalized.
Puffiness. Fluid builds up in the joint and it becomes swollen; it also contributes to stiffness.
Pain. The inflammation in the joint makes it more sensitive and painful. Prolonged inflammation also contributes to pain.
Hyperemia and local temperature increase. Joints may be slightly warmer to the touch and redder than the surrounding skin.
Various joints are affected (hands are almost always affected) and the process is symmetrical
Symptoms of secondary organ damage in RA.
Rheumatoid arthritis can involve various organs with certain symptoms:
Fatigue (increased fatigue)
General weakness
Loss of appetite, sometimes resulting in weight loss
Muscle pain

These symptoms are similar to those of an acute viral infection, but more intense and longer lasting.

Rheumatoid nodules are small formations under the skin that most often appear on the elbows.They are sometimes painful.

Injury to the lungs or pleura is usually asymptomatic. With the development of shortness of breath, drugs are used that reduce the inflammatory process

Rheumatoid arthritis can affect the structures of the larynx and cause dysphonia.

Rheumatoid arthritis can cause inflammation of the mucous membranes around the heart, which is usually asymptomatic. With the development of symptoms, this can be manifested by shortness of breath, pain in the chest area. In addition, damage and narrowing of the coronary arteries occurs.

Eye damage occurs in less than 5% of patients with rheumatoid arthritis. This is manifested by reddening of the eyes, dryness, soreness in the eyes.

Diagnostics

Early diagnosis of rheumatoid arthritis can be difficult. Unfortunately, there is no pathognomic analysis that can confidently make a diagnosis of rheumatoid arthritis. But at present, the diagnosis of rheumatoid arthritis is made based on factors closely related to this disease.There are a number of criteria for a diagnosis of rheumatoid arthritis:

Morning stiffness in and around joints for at least one hour.
Simultaneous edema in three or more joints
Swelling in the wrist or fingers.
Symmetrical involvement of similar joints on both sides.
Rheumatoid nodules, tumor-like formations in the skin (mainly in the elbows).
The presence of an increased level of rheumatic factor in the blood.
Radiographic signs of changes in the hands and wrists with typical rheumatoid arthritis damage to the bone tissue around the joints.

The diagnosis of rheumatoid arthritis can be reliably made in the presence of 4 or more factors. The first four factors must be present for at least 6 weeks. The doctor needs to see the joints when activating the process for the following reasons:

Patients cannot always describe their symptoms.
Rheumatoid arthritis can manifest as other joint diseases
Patients sometimes do not pay attention to mild pain and endure until it is time to seek medical help
Some diseases that mask rheumatoid arthritis can make it difficult to diagnose: – gout, fibromyalgia, other autoimmune diseases (for example, SLE).

In view of the above, early diagnosis can be difficult.In fact, the average time from onset of symptoms to diagnosis is nearly 9 months.

Although rheumatoid arthritis is not an easy task to diagnose, it is extremely important to correctly identify the disease. Late diagnosis can be fraught with consequences due to early involvement of internal organs in the process. Experts believe that timely treatment can lead to good long-term results.

The doctor needs to carry out a number of measures in order to diagnose:

Medical history Provide information to the physician about the frequency, intensity and time of day when symptoms appear.
Physical examination The examination allows you to visually assess the presence of an inflammatory process in the joints.
Laboratory tests These include both general tests and the detection of rheumatic factor and high levels of sialic acid or the presence of autoantibodies, changes in the level of various enzymes, etc.
Radiography can diagnose any damage to bone tissue.

Treatment

Medication

NSAIDs.an integral part of the drug treatment of rheumatoid arthritis are drugs of the NSAID group (ibuprofen, indomethacin voltaren, etc.) The task of these drugs is to reduce pain and inflammation in the joints. But they don’t stop the progression of rheumatoid arthritis. In addition, these drugs have a number of side effects and should be taken under the supervision of the attending physician

Antirheumatic drugs. These medicines help slow down or stop the progression of rheumatoid arthritis.The best known drug for treating rheumatoid arthritis is methotrexate. In addition, there are a number of drugs from this group (Arava, Azulfidin, Cytoxan, Imuran, Neoral, Plaquenil). These drugs have an immunosuppressive effect and thus reduce the activity of autoimmune processes. In many cases, the use of methotrexate has helped to avoid deformity of the joints and maintain their functionality. But the drugs of this group do not have a tropic effect and when they are taken, complications in the form of infectious lesions are sometimes possible (due to suppression of the immune system).

Corticosteroids. Prescribing steroids is possible in the presence of severe symptoms (pain, stiffness in the joints). In most cases, a short course of treatment is prescribed to control the exacerbation. Corticosteroids can be injected into the joint or given orally or parenterally. With adequate steroids, complications such as high blood pressure, osteoporosis or diabetes do not occur.

Biologically active preparations. The most modern treatment for rheumatoid arthritis using genetically engineered proteins.These proteins inhibit specific components of inflammation (key in inflammation mechanisms). Biologically active drugs are prescribed in cases where other treatment is not effective. One such drug is a protein called tumor necrosis factor. Tumor necrosis factor stops the progression of rheumatoid arthritis in some patients. The most effective combination of TNF with methotrexate. The group of these drugs includes Humira, Remicade, Tsimzia and Simponi.

Physiotherapy.Physiotherapy helps reduce inflammation and increase joint mobility.

exercise therapy. physical activity at any stage of rheumatoid arthritis has a positive effect on the functionality of the joints and is an important part of treatment. Exercise helps reduce pain, strengthen bone tissue, increase muscle strength, and improve overall well-being.

Biological interventions to manage fatigue in rheumatoid arthritis

Relevance

What is rheumatoid arthritis and what are biologics?

If you have rheumatoid arthritis, it means that your immune system, which normally fights infection, attacks the inner surfaces of your joints, making them swollen, stiff and painful.The small joints of your hands and feet are usually affected first. Currently, rheumatoid arthritis is considered an incurable disease, so treatment is aimed at reducing pain and stiffness and improving the ability to move. Biologics are medicines that can reduce joint inflammation and relieve symptoms of the disease, as well as prevent joint damage.

Fatigue is an important symptom in people with rheumatoid arthritis. However, there is no consensus on the most effective treatment for fatigue.A number of studies have examined the effects of biological response modifiers (biologics) in the management of individuals with rheumatoid arthritis and associated symptoms such as fatigue. We conducted this review to evaluate the effect of these treatments on fatigue in adults with rheumatoid arthritis.

Characteristics of research

We searched all studies published up to April 1, 2014 and found 32 relevant studies. 19 studies were found that examined five anti-TNF (tumor necrosis factor) biologics (adalimumab, certolizumab, etanercept, golimumab, and infliximab).In addition, 12 studies were found that examined five non-anti-TNF biologics (abatacept, canakinumab, rituximab, tocilizumab, and anti-interferon gamma monoclonal antibodies).

Main results

In total, 9,946 participants received biologics and 4,682 participants received standard treatment. All but two of the studies were randomized, placebo-controlled trials, which are the gold standard in terms of research quality.We compared the effects of biologics and placebos. At the beginning of some studies, participants were able to receive standard treatment for rheumatoid arthritis. In this case, the researchers added biologics or placebo therapy to standard treatment. Overall, treatment with biologics resulted in a small to moderate reduction in fatigue reported by patients (a 9-point decrease on a 0-52 scale) compared to a 3-point decrease in placebo participants. It is not yet clear whether this improvement is due to a decrease in overall disease activity, a direct effect of biologics, or some other mechanism.

Quality of evidence

There may have been some bias in the way the researchers analyzed the data. Some studies did not include all randomized participants, so we rated the quality of the evidence as moderate rather than high.

90,000 causes, symptoms, treatment and prevention

Rheumatoid arthritis is a so-called systemic disease that affects the connective tissue of the body, which entails a lot of negative consequences.Small joints are severely affected, which are destroyed, change their size and shape. About 1% of people worldwide suffer from this disease.

The difficulty is that no one knows the exact causes of the disease. There is only a complex of moments that contribute to the development of the disease, therefore, it cannot be avoided. The disease itself leads to a person’s disability, greatly reduces the quality of his life.

Rheumatoid arthritis is detected on average at 30-35 years old, then the disease gradually develops and by old age it has the maximum effect on a person’s life.Women suffer from this ailment 3 times more often than men.

Possible causes of the problem

The medical community assumes that many factors at once affect the development of the disease, and not just one. Possible causes of rheumatoid arthritis include:

genetic predisposition. The point is that at the genetic level a person has a tendency to various disorders in the development of immunity;
some infectious agents.There are several “candidates” here, but the researchers of this problem have not yet decided upon the end;
a set of triggers: hypothermia, hyperinsolation, intoxication, bacterial infections, taking certain medications. This group includes disorders of the thyroid gland and even stress.

There is information that breastfeeding for two years is a factor that reduces the risk of developing the disease (on average, two times).

Symptoms

Symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis include:

morning stiffness. That is, during waking up and within an hour after sleep, a person cannot move actively, in the usual mode – it can be difficult to perform even simple actions, for example, to shift a pillow, blanket;
joint pain, which may recur at different intervals. If you feel the joints, the pain increases. With the development of the disease, reduced joint mobility is manifested.The temperature of the skin in the area of the folds may be higher than in the rest of the skin;
Presence of rheumatoid nodules. Dense subcutaneous formations are felt in the area of the joints;
general ill health. It can manifest itself as a decrease in appetite, causeless weight loss, and a constant feeling of fatigue.

With an aggressive course of the disease and a long period of the disease, other internal organs can be damaged, which is not so common.

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Forms of arthritis

Disease in its purest form suggests that only the joints are affected, without affecting other organs. If we are talking about a disease with systemic manifestations, then in this case autoimmune processes are reflected in the heart, lungs, kidneys, nervous and other systems.The development of the disease is associated with the deposition of a pathological type of protein in the organs.

Can reveal diagnostics of rheumatoid arthritis and other additional diseases. It is sometimes combined with osteoarthritis, rheumatism.

There is also the so-called juvenile variant of the disease – this is a severe form of the disease that affects children and adolescents. She, too, can only capture the joints or joints along with the internal organs.

Varieties of the disease depending on the course

Slowly progressive rheumatoid arthritis suggests that the disease develops over the years, gradually affecting the joints.The joints themselves do not suffer very much. Treatment helps here and you can maintain a fairly comfortable standard of living.

The rapidly progressive type is characterized by frequent and severe exacerbations, the damage to the joints is strong, and the treatment is of little help. The quality of human life is deteriorating significantly.

The simplest and easiest type for the patient is a disease without noticeable progression. You can live with it to a ripe old age, without especially suffering from symptoms.

Degrees of development

The degree depends on the extent to which the deficiency of the musculoskeletal system is manifested. Allocate 4 stages, taking into account zero:

zero. The patient serves himself on his own, his life practically does not change;
first. Due to joint problems, not all movements are available to the patient. Some professional activities are already excluded;
second. At this stage, a person loses professional ability to work;
third.The most difficult degree assumes that the patient does not have the opportunity to independently serve himself, even in everyday life, one hundred percent.

Obviously, when combined with other diseases, the situation at each stage becomes much more complicated.

Diagnostics

Various methods are used to diagnose rheumatoid arthritis:

laboratory. They involve immunological, biochemical studies and the study of a general blood test;
instrumental.Puncture of the joint, radioisotope study, x-rays are common diagnostic options;
biopsy. It also refers to instrumental, but it is taken out separately, since of all the solutions listed, it is used most rarely.

Diagnostics begins with a doctor’s appointment and examination. To make an appointment for a consultation, you must contact a rheumatologist.

Treatment in Moscow

For those forms where the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis can give a good result, a whole range of different medicines are used:

anti-inflammatory nonsteroidal drugs;
basic drugs.They are made on the basis of several active ingredients;
hormonal substances. In this case, glucocorticoids are used in different forms: tablets, ointments, means for injection;
biological agents: monoclonal antibodies, lymphocyte differentiation regulators, etc.

In addition to the main treatment, patients are offered physiotherapy procedures, therapeutic exercises (only at the time of remission).Prevention of osteoporosis is mandatory. And also rheumatoid arthritis, if it greatly reduces the quality of life, may involve surgical correction of “difficult” joints.

Prevention of complications

If the symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis were detected at an early stage, then timely treatment in many situations can significantly slow down the pathological processes and avoid complications. The following preventive measures should be added to effective treatment:

maintaining a healthy lifestyle.A special diet is also recommended for patients;
giving up bad habits;
regular physical activity without excessive exertion;
Increased focus on the treatment of other illnesses – even common colds.

Such prevention of rheumatoid arthritis gives a good chance that a person will be able to live life in fairly comfortable conditions.

Questions-Answers on the Topic

How is arthritis different from rheumatoid arthritis?

Arthritis is the collective name for joint diseases.It also refers to the characteristic symptoms of other diseases. Rheumatoid arthritis is a specific diagnosis and a dangerous disease that requires compulsory treatment.

Can the disease be cured forever?

It is a chronic disease that cannot be completely and permanently cured. But it is possible with the help of treatment to keep it in remission for a long time or significantly reduce the number, intensity of exacerbations.

Is it possible to sunbathe with rheumatoid arthritis?

Since excessive sun exposure is one of the triggers in the development of this disease, it is obvious that sunbathing with such a diagnosis is unacceptable – the complications of rheumatoid arthritis will not be long in coming.It is important to listen to all the recommendations of doctors so that the disease manifests itself minimally.

90,000 Rheumatoid arthritis – symptoms, treatment of causes, prices in the clinic SOYUZ

Treatment of rheumatoid arthritis

Unfortunately, at the moment in the world medicine there are no methods to completely cure this disease. The disease persists throughout life – with periods of exacerbation and remission.

Treatment exists, of course, but it is aimed at reducing symptoms and improving the quality of life of patients.Therefore, the main tasks of therapy for rheumatoid arthritis are pain relief, reduction of inflammation and stiffness in the joints, restoration (at least partially) of their functions, as well as prevention of further development of the disease and possible complications.

The earlier the therapy starts, the better the effect will be and the less harm caused to the body will be.

In rheumatoid arthritis, first of all, drug therapy with the main groups of drugs is indicated:

Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) – have anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects, are used from the earliest stage of the disease.The course of treatment and dosage should only be prescribed by a doctor.
Basic (aimed at containing and reducing the level of activity of the development of the disease, prevent further destruction of the joints, bring into remission during an exacerbation)
Glucocorticosteroids (designed to relieve inflammation and pain)

To maintain drug therapy, physiotherapeutic treatment is prescribed – magnetotherapy, electrophoresis, laser therapy, physiotherapy exercises.

In the advanced course of the disease, when the joints have a pronounced deformation, surgical treatment may be indicated. A complete joint replacement is generally recommended as the joint changes are irreversible.

It should be understood that a complete cure for rheumatoid arthritis is not yet possible. But it is unacceptable to refuse and interrupt treatment, since it is systematic supportive therapy that makes it possible to achieve long-term remission.