Rheumatoid arthritis is a chronic disorder for which there is no known cure. It therefore requires a comprehensive program that combines medical, social, and emotional support for the patient. It is essential that the patient and the patient’s family be educated about the nature and course of the disease. The major goals of treatment of the arthritis are to reduce pain and discomfort, prevent deformities and loss of joint function, and maintain a productive and active life. Inflammation must be suppressed and mechanical and structural abnormalities corrected or compensated by assistive devices. Treatment options include reduction of joint stress, physical and occupational therapy, drug therapy, and surgical intervention. Joan Bathon, M.D., of the Division of Rheumatology, Department of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University, has written extensively about the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis and the treatment available at Johns Hopkins Medicine. For more information, please visit the Johns Hopkins Arthritis web site. |
