It is a chronic disease that causes pain, stiffness, edema and limited mobility as well as a decline in the function of multiple joints. Stiffness is typically worse during the morning.
RA is an autoimmune disease that developes because certain cells of immune system malfunction and attack the joints. This leads to inflammation of the joints, especially the synovial joint.
RA diagnosis is based on symptoms described and physical examination findings such as warm or swollen joints, and pain. Also, certain abnormalities may appear in laboratory tests.
Diet is important for people affected by rheumatoid arthritis. For example, omega-3 fatty acids can have anti-inflammatory effects and reduce pain5-9.
Animal sources of omega-3 fatty acids include fish, especially cold water fish like salmon, mackerel, anchovies, and sardines9.
Non-animal sources of omega-3 fatty acids include walnuts, flaxseed, tofu, soya, and some vegetable oils, such as canola, soys, flaxseed and olive oil9.
The doctor will indicate the physical activity
that is
adequate for each patient, which may include:
They relieve stiffness and allow mobilizing joints within their range of motion.
They strengthen the muscles that contribute to protect the joints.
It improves physical fitness in general.
Low-impact
exercises are recommended, e.g. walking, swimming, water
exercise and biking.
It helps maintain balance and can be useful to prevent falls. Any postures or movements that cause pain should be avoided.
Subject to doctor recommendation.
References: 1. Shah A, St. Clair E. Rheumatoid Arthritis. In: Kasper D, Fauci A, Hauser S, Longo D, Jameson J, Loscalzo J. eds. Harrison's Principles of InternalMedicine,19eNewYork,NY:McGraw-Hill;2014. | 2. Rheumatology.com [Internet] Atlanta: American College of Rheumatology; 2017 [Updated March 2017; Accessed November 27, 2018]. Jennifer Murphy, MD. Rheumatoid Arthritis. Available at: https://www.rheumatology.org/I-Am-A/Patient-Caregiver/Diseases-Conditions/Rheumatoid-Arthritis. | 3. O’Dell JR, Imboden JB, Miller LD. Chapter 15. Rheumatoid Arthritis. In: Imboden JB, Hellmann DB, Stone JH. eds. CURRENT Diagnosis & Treatment: Rheumatology, 3e New York, NY: McGraw-Hill; 2013. | 4. Smolen JS, Aletaha D, Barton A, et al. Rheumatoid arthritis. Nat Rev Dis Prim. 2018;4:18001. | 5. Tedeschi, S.K. & Costenbader, K.H. Curr Rheumatol Rep (2016) 18: 23. | 6. Proudman S, Cleland L, James M. Dietary Omega-3 Fats for Treatment of In ammatory Joint Disease: Ef cacy and Utility. Rheum Dis ClinN Am 2008;34: 469-79. | 7. Oh R. Practical Applications of Fish Oil (omega-3 fatty acids) in Primary Care. J Am Board Fam Pract 2005;18:28-36. | 8. Russo S. Integrated pain management: using omega 3 fatty acids in a naturopathic model. Techniques in regional Anesthesia and Pain Management 2008;12(2):105-8. | 9. Hughes EF, Barrows K. Complementary & Alternative Medicine. Chapter 41. In: McPhee SJ, Papadakis MA, Tierney LM, Jr. CURRENT Medical Diagnosis & Treatment. McGraw-Hill, 2009. | 10. MayoClinic.com.[Internet]. [Updated Oct. 26, 2016; Accessed November 27, 2018] Mayo Clinic Staff. Exercising with arthritis: improve your joint pain and stiffness. Available at: http://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/arthritis/in-depth/arthritis/art-20047971
Disclaimer: The information reflected is not to be construed as medical advice. The HCP
should always be consulted first
(especially in regard to adopting an exercise
regime).
Disclaimer: The information contained herein is provided for educational purposes only and is not intended to constitute
medical advice or replace discussions with a healthcare provider. All decisions regarding patient care must be made
with a healthcare provider, considering the unique characteristics of the patient.
