rheumatoid arthritis Flashcards
Q: What is rheumatoid arthritis (RA)?
A: A chronic systemic autoimmune disorder causing inflammation in synovial tissues, leading to joint damage.
Q: Which joints are commonly affected in RA?
A: Small joints of the hands, feet, wrists, and ankles.
Q: Is RA symmetrical or asymmetrical?
A: Symmetrical.
Etiology
Q: What is the cause of RA?
A: Unknown
etiology
Q: What percentage of the U.S. population is affected by RA?
A: 1–2%.
etiology
Q: Who is more affected by RA, men or women?
A: Women, three times more than men.
etiology
Q: At what age does RA most commonly occur?
A: Between 40–60 years.
Signs and Symptoms
Q: What are the main symptoms of RA?
A: Joint pain, tenderness, morning stiffness, fatigue, malaise, decreased appetite, warm joints.
Signs and Symptoms
Q: What are two common deformities seen in RA?
Swan neck deformity: DIP flexion, PIP hyperextension.
Boutonnière deformity: DIP extension, PIP flexion.
Signs and Symptoms
Q: What systemic symptom is common in RA?
A: Low-grade fever.
Diagnosis
Q: How is RA diagnosed?
A: Based on clinical presentation, rheumatoid factor in blood, and radiographic changes.
Treatment
Diagnosis
Q: What are the goals of RA treatment?
A: Reduce inflammation and pain, promote joint function, prevent destruction and deformity.
Diagnosis
Q: What medications are used to manage RA?
NSAIDs for pain and inflammation.
Corticosteroids for severe flares.
DMARDs to slow disease progression.
Q: What physical therapy interventions are used for RA?
Diagnosis
Q: What physical therapy interventions are used for RA?
Range-of-motion exercises (active and passive).
Heat/cold therapy.
Splinting.
Education on energy conservation, body mechanics, and joint protection.
