People with rheumatoid arthritis often experience low back pain and sciatica. Find out more about the connection between these conditions, and what factors may contribute to back pain and RA.
Rheumatoid
Rheumatoid arthritis is a type of inflammatory arthritis that is also classified as an autoimmune disorder. This means that the nervous system sends errant messages to the immune cells to attack the body’s own joint tissues.
Symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis include painful swelling, stiffness and deformities of the joints, most commonly in the hands, wrists and feet; typically, joints on both sides of the body are affected. Treatment programs usually center on medications to control the symptoms and stop or slow the progressive joint damage; exercise may also be included to help the patient retain strength and mobility.
Listed below are peer reviewed articles on rheumatoid arthritis.
The exact cause of rheumatoid arthritis is unknown, but certain factors such as genetics, external toxins, infections, and hormones seem to put some people at higher risk of developing rheumatoid arthritis.
When severe joint pain from rheumatoid arthritis is disabling a patient's ability to function in everyday life, surgical options to restore function such as joint replacement can be considered.
Rheumatoid arthritis often affects the small joints in fingers, thumbs, and wrists. Thankfully, there are many strategies for accomplishing everyday tasks, taking pressure off the hand joints, improving hand strength, and coping with chronic pain. Read on to find out more and how working with an occupational therapist can help.
Working with a foot and ankle specialist, along with a rheumatologist, can help foot and ankle rheumatoid arthritis patients better manage their specific symptoms.
There are many treatments available to help reduce swelling and pain in the hands caused by rheumatoid arthritis. While some of these treatments can be done at home, others may require a doctor’s prescription. Hand surgery is rarely needed.
Article
What Is Pannus?
The development of pannus in joints is a sign of rheumatoid arthritis. Learn how this abnormal tissue develops and how it destroys joint cartilage.
Rheumatoid arthritis is chronic inflammatory disease causing swelling and painful flare-ups in the joints. Explore information about RA symptoms and treatments.
These signs and symptoms may occur if rheumatoid arthritis is untreated or under-treated. While some RA signs and symptoms may be reversible, others may become permanent.
People who have rheumatoid arthritis have a greater risk of developing other medical conditions that affect the eyes, lungs, gums, kidneys, skin, and/or bones. This page describes signs and symptoms to look out for if you have RA.
