Musculoskeletal system: conditions Flashcards
Rheumatoid Arthritis
What is rheumatoid arthritis (RA)?
A chronic autoimmune disease causing joint inflammation, pain, deformity, and immobility, often affecting fingers, wrists, feet, and ankles.
Explain the cause of RA
The immune system mistakenly attacks the cells lining the joints, leading to inflammation, cartilage erosion, and joint damage.
Describe the symmetry of RA symptoms
RA symptoms are usually symmetrical, affecting joints on both sides of the body simultaneously.
Why does RA increase the risk of osteoporosis?
Chronic inflammation and immobility contribute to bone loss and weakness, increasing osteoporosis risk.
Explain how RA impacts physical health
Joint pain, swelling, and stiffness (often worse in the morning).
Tingling or burning sensations from nerve irritation.
Joint deformities and limited motion from long-term damage.
Increases risk of osteoporosis and bone loss.
How does RA affect mental health?
Chronic pain, fatigue, and mobility issues cause stress, anxiety, depression, and feelings of isolation.
Name one way RA affects other systems in the body
It can cause skin rashes, eye problems (dryness/redness), or increase the risk of heart attack and stroke.
What is the main goal of anti-rheumatic drugs?
To suppress the immune system, reduce inflammation, and slow disease progression.
Describe the purpose of physiotherapy in RA treatment
Improves joint mobility, muscle strength, and function, while providing pain relief through techniques like heat therapy or cold packs.
Name three types of RA surgery
Joint replacement: Replace damaged joints with prosthetics.
Arthrodesis: Fuse joints to reduce pain and stabilize.
Synovectomy: Remove inflamed synovium to relieve pain.
Name one DMARD and its purpose in treating RA
Methotrexate: Reduces inflammation and joint damage by suppressing the immune system.
Explain how biological treatments work for RA
They target specific immune processes (e.g., TNF-alpha inhibitors like Adalimumab) to reduce inflammation and joint damage.
Why are biological treatments often combined with DMARDs?
To enhance the effectiveness of reducing inflammation and disease progression.
A patient with RA has chronic morning stiffness lasting over an hour. Explain why this occurs
Prolonged joint inflammation leads to stiffness, which is often worse after periods of inactivity like sleeping.
Describe how RA increases the risk of cardiovascular problems
Chronic inflammation can damage blood vessels, increasing the risk of heart attack and stroke.
A patient with RA is prescribed physiotherapy. Explain how this supports joint health
Physiotherapy strengthens muscles, improves mobility, and teaches joint-protection techniques, reducing pain and disability.
How does RA cause joint deformities over time?
Persistent inflammation damages cartilage, tendons, and ligaments, leading to joint instability and deformities.
Why are assistive devices recommended for RA patients?
Devices like splints or braces support weakened joints, reduce strain, and prevent further damage.