Everything You Need To Know About Rheumatoid Arthritis

Rheumatoid arthritis is a chronic autoimmune disease that causes joint inflammation and pain. The damage and pain result from the immune system attacking the lining of the joints. People with the condition may suffer from sleep interruptions, physical weakness, reduced mobility, and deformity in the affected areas. Working with physical therapy Murrieta can help patients learn to manage their condition and lead productive and satisfying lives.

How Does This Condition Develop?

Doctors don't know what starts or ignites the process in patients. The assumption is that genetics play a significant role in the development of the condition. Genes do not cause rheumatoid arthritis, but they can affect how your body reacts to environmental factors, such as viruses and infections, which can trigger the disease. Many researchers also suggest that hormones can play a role in the development of the disease and its progression.

Other factors that may contribute to the development of the condition include age, sex, and lifestyle choices. While the disease can appear at any age, it is more likely to occur between the ages of 30 and 50. Some people may not experience the condition until they are between the ages of 60 and 65. When the condition starts later in life, it is referred to as elderly on-set or late on-set.

Smoking, overeating, and obesity are other possible causes of the condition. When people adopt unhealthy lifestyle habits, it affects their bodies. A team that includes a nutritionist, primary care physician and Palm Desert physical therapy can help patients slow the progression of the disease and find practical ways to cope and prolong mobility and strength.

How Can You Treat This Condition?

There is no cure for rheumatoid arthritis, but with treatment and early diagnosis, patients can live full lives. Depending on the severity of the condition, a doctor may prescribe several different medications to treat the symptoms of the disease. Some of the medicines include methotrexate, sulfasalazine, and corticosteroids.

Beyond medications, a doctor typically advises patients to focus on lifestyle changes and exercise. Some lifestyle changes may include weight management, self-management education, and stopping unhelpful behaviors like smoking.

To incorporate appropriate exercises into your routine, a doctor may suggest physical therapy jobs near me. Physical therapists use methods like occupational therapy to help patients learn to function with their disease. The exercises often include the use of physical aids but may also involve balancing activities, writing tasks, eye-hand coordination games, and other play and movement exercises. The goal of OT is to help patients maintain, recover, improve, or develop the skills they need for daily living.

Rheumatoid arthritis is incurable, but that doesn't mean you can't live the life you want to live. Learning how to manage the condition and function within its confines is challenging, but with dedication and perseverance, you can do it. Contact a local physical therapy office to discuss your condition and occupational therapy options and schedule a consultation. A licensed physical therapist can offer more insight into the type of therapy you need.