Rheumatoid arthritis is a chronic disorder that affects the joints. Unfortunately, there isn’t a cure for this disease yet. But some treatments can help to reduce the severity of the symptoms to a great extent. Rheumatoid arthritis treatment is never the same for all patients but varies depending on the condition of the patient. The level of pain and discomfort would be a critical factor in deciding the best rheumatoid arthritis treatment.
Rheumatoid arthritis treatment options
Rheumatoid arthritis treatment is mainly a combination of drugs, physiotherapies, and surgery. As mentioned, it varies from patient to patient. Let’s dwell on the therapies in detail,
- Drug therapy
NAID (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug), painkillers, DMARDs (disease modifying anti-rheumatic drugs) and steroids are the main types of drugs used in rheumatoid arthritis treatment. Most patients need more than one drug to suppress the symptoms. All the mentioned drugs except steroids are given as a combination. Steroids are initially given to reduce inflammation as DMARD takes time to start showing an effect. However, these must be only taken under the guidance of a qualified doctor. - Physiotherapy
Hydrotherapy is said to ease the symptoms making it a practical option for rheumatoid arthritis hand pain and joints. A podiatrist can help in the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis leg pain, suggesting the right type of footwear to be used and how to care for feet and ankle pains. An occupational therapist can help with tips on how to get on with your day to day activities and also on splints to support your wrists and hands. - Natural therapies
Fish oil, hot and cold treatments, massages and many other natural therapies are also known to help lessen the severity of the symptoms over time. - Resting
As resting not only gives time for various treatments and drugs to work but also relaxes your joints and muscles, providing them time to recover. Over exercising or excessive medication may not be as helpful with coping with the symptoms of this condition as allowing your body the time to rest.
Rheumatoid arthritis treatment as said before is a combination of various options. Finding the one that would suit you the best will be the key. Following your doctor’s advice and figuring out the right course of treatment would be the first step for feeling better.