What treatment options are available for managing rheumatoid arthritis?
Treatment options for managing rheumatoid arthritis (RA) include:
Medications:
1. Disease-Modifying Antirheumatic Drugs (DMARDs): Slow disease progression and joint damage.
2. Biologics: Target specific proteins involved in inflammation.
3. Corticosteroids: Reduce inflammation and swelling.
4. Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs): Relieve pain and inflammation.
5. JAK inhibitors: Block enzymes involved in inflammation.
Non-Pharmacological Therapies:
1. Physical Therapy: Maintain joint mobility and strength.
2. Occupational Therapy: Adapt to daily activities and maintain independence.
3. Massage Therapy: Reduce pain and improve joint mobility.
4. Acupuncture: Stimulate pain-relieving chemicals.
Surgical Options:
1. Synovectomy: Remove inflamed joint lining.
2. Tendon repair: Repair damaged tendons.
3. Joint replacement: Replace severely damaged joints.
4. Joint fusion: Fuse joints to reduce pain and instability.