Musculoskeletal and orthopaedic conditions

Rheumatoid Arthritis

Rheumatoid arthritis is when the immune system attacks the joints, causing pain, swelling, and joint deformity, often in the small joints of...

About this profile

Rheumatoid arthritis is when the immune system attacks the joints, causing pain, swelling, and joint deformity, often in the small joints of the hands and feet.

Watch and listen

Psoriatic Arthritis, Causes, Signs and Symptoms, Diagnosis and Treatment.
Mayo Clinic Minute What’s rheumatoid arthritis?

Common challenges

  • Pain and limited mobility.
  • Difficulty with fine motor tasks.
  • Fatigue from pain and poor sleep.
  • Struggling with repetitive tasks.
  • Trouble lifting heavy items.
  • Need for frequent rest breaks.

How to help

  • Teach joint protection techniques.
  • Suggest exercises to improve mobility.
  • Create a pacing plan to avoid overworking.
  • Offer strategies to manage fatigue.
  • Provide tools to make daily tasks easier.
  • Support pain management (relaxation, medication, therapy).
  • Help set goals and adapt tasks.
  • Offer stress management techniques.
  • Teach joint protection strategies.
  • Connect to community resources.
  • Assist with pain management and skin care.
  • Modify work tasks to help with joint mobility.
  • Encourage stress management practices.
  • Help access treatment and mental health resources.
  • Work with healthcare providers to manage symptoms.

Resources

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