By CareMotion ยท Orthopedic Rehabilitation
How Rheumatoid Arthritis Differs from Osteoarthritis
Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) is a chronic systemic autoimmune disorder where the immune system mistakenly attacks the synovial lining of joints, causing painful swelling, bone erosion, and symmetrical joint deformities.
Unlike osteoarthritis (which is wear and tear typically worse in the evening), RA is characterized by intense morning joint stiffness lasting over an hour, warm swollen knuckles, and systemic fatigue.
- Symmetrical involvement of small joints in wrists, hands, and balls of the feet.
- Fluctuating pattern of acute inflammatory flares and periods of relative remission.
- Requires close medical management with DMARDs alongside supportive physical therapy.
Exercise Strategy: Flare Phase vs. Remission Phase
Exercise protocols must adapt strictly to disease activity. During an acute inflammatory flare (hot, swollen, throbbing joints), vigorous resistance exercises and heavy stretching are contraindicated to prevent joint capsule stretching.
During flares, therapy focuses on gentle active-assisted range of motion to prevent joint contractures. During remission, progressive isometric and low-impact aerobic exercises rebuild muscle support without joint irritation.
- Acute Flare: Gentle pain-free range of motion drills and cold therapy for 15 minutes.
- Remission Phase: Isometric strengthening of forearm and quadriceps muscles.
- Daily hand finger tendon glides and thumb opposition exercises to maintain dexterity.
Joint Protection Principles for Everyday Living
Joint protection techniques distribute daily mechanical workloads over larger, stronger joints. For example, carrying bags on the forearms or shoulders rather than gripping thin handles with small arthritic finger joints.
CareMotion physiotherapists teach joint protection strategies, prescribe custom splints when indicated, and guide safe home exercise across Kolkata.
- Use larger, padded handles on utensils, door knobs, and writing pens.
- Slide pots and dishes across countertops rather than lifting with wrists.
- Pace daily activities, incorporating brief 5-minute rest breaks before fatigue sets in.
General information to help you plan a visit. Individual assessment and your treating team's advice guide rehabilitation decisions.