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Treatment Options for Rheumatoid Arthritis
Goals of Treatment for Rheumatoid Arthritis
The primary goals of treatment for rheumatoid arthritis (RA) include:
- Alleviating joint-related symptoms (e.g., pain, swelling, stiffness)
- Preserving function of the affected joints
- Preventing deformity and disability
- Preserving the patient's quality of life to the greatest extent possible
- Educating patients about their disease including the importance of patient compliance with the treatment plan and helping patients set realistic expectations with respect to the long-term prognosis (outlook)
Although rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is usually treated by a rheumatologist , a physician who specializes in the diagnosis and management of rheumatic diseases, often patients require the expertise of other health care providers that may include:
- Physical therapists
- Occupational therapists
- Orthopaedic surgeons
- Podiatrists
- Mental health professionals
- Nurses
- Social workers
