Therapy
A physiotherapist can provide advice on an appropriate exercise programme for a person with rheumatoid arthritis as well as setting a regime of specific exercises aimed at strengthening affected joints. Some physiotherapists offer acupuncture, hydrotherapy and massage therapy and can provide TENS machines for pain relief.
An occupational therapist (or OT) can offer advice on how to perform everyday activities, such as dressing or cooking, without straining the joints too much. Occupational therapists also assess activities that patients find particularly challenging and can provide physical aids to help. These include, for example: splints to support affected joints; risers to raise the height of a chair, making it easier to get up; jar grippers, which make it easier to open jars; handles that fit to bathroom taps, making them easier to turn on and off; or walking aids such as sticks or frames.
Podiatry, previously known as chiropody, may be helpful for people with rheumatoid arthritis affecting the feet. Podiatrists provide specialised footwear or insoles to reduce pain and prevent or reduce deformity of the foot joints.
