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Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune disease that causes body-wide inflammation that often results in damage to the cartilage, bones, and organs of the body. While there is currently no cure for RA, early and aggressive treatment can lead to remission. If you or a loved one is suffering from RA, it is important to consult an experienced arthritis doctor in Ocala, Florida, to help determine which treatment option is right for your individual needs. Read on to learn about some of the best treatment options for rheumatoid arthritis. Treatment Goals The outlook for individuals with rheumatoid arthritis has never been brighter. Due to recent advancements in treatment options, RA patients today experience a much higher quality of life than in the past. The goals for the treatment of RA include the following: - Stop inflammation
- Relive symptoms
- Prevent joint and organ damage
- Reduce long-term complications
To meet these goals, doctors use a combination of aggressive pharmacological and nonpharmacological treatment options to gain tight control of the disease and achieve remission. Medications There are several different types of drugs used in the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis. Some are primarily used to ease the symptoms of RA, while others are used to slow progression of the disease or to prevent joint or organ damage. The following medications are commonly used in the treatment of RA: - NSAIDs: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are used to ease the pain and inflammation associated with RA. Some of the most common NSAIDs used in the treatment of RA include ibuprofen, ketoprofen, naproxen sodium, and celecoxib.
- Steroids: Corticosteroids are used to reduce inflammation and slow joint damage. Some of the most common steroids used in the treatment of RA include prednisone, prednisolone, and methylprednisolone. Because these drugs can cause harmful side effects, they are usually prescribed for short periods of time.
- DMARDs: Disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs) are used to slow the progression of RA. Some of the most common DMARDs used in the treatment of RA include methotrexate, sulfasalazine, hydroxycholorquine, and leflunomide.
- Biologics: These drugs are a subset of DMARDs, but work more quickly and target specific steps in the inflammatory process. These drugs may be used to slow or stop the disease when other options have failed.
Therapy Physical and occupational therapy are often prescribed to reduce pain and inflammation and increase mobility, strength, and functionality in patients with rheumatoid arthritis. The following are some of the most common forms of therapy used in the treatment of RA: - Physical therapy: This type of therapy is used to improve mobility, stability, and flexibility in the joints. Physical therapy is also used to improve strength and prevent joint injury.
- Occupational therapy: This type of therapy is used to help patients learn new and effective ways to accomplish daily tasks without putting stress on painful joints. Occupational therapy often includes instruction in the use of assistive devices.
Surgery Surgery may be considered to repair or replace damaged joints in severe cases of rheumatoid arthritis. The following are some of the most common surgical procedures used in the treatment of RA: - Joint replacement: This surgical procedure, also called arthroplasty, involves the partial or total replacement of damaged joints with a prosthesis made of plastic or metal materials.
- Joint fusion: This surgical procedure, also called arthrodesis, involves the realignment and fusion of damaged joints when replacement isn’t an option.
- Tendon repair: This surgical procedure involves the repair of tendons that have become loose or have ruptured due to inflammation or joint damage.
- Synovectomy: This surgical procedure involves removal of the synovial lining of an inflamed and painful joint.
Before considering surgery, or any type of treatment for rheumatoid arthritis, it is important to consult an experienced arthritis doctor in Ocala, Florida, to determine which option is right for you.
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