Rheumatoid arthritis
What is rheumatoid arthritis?
Rheumatoid arthritis is a condition that can affect multiple joints in the body. It is the result of an auto immune response (when the body’s cells attack its own tissues). It can cause pain, swelling, inflammation, restriction of movement and destruction of joint surfaces.
How is rheumatoid arthritis treated?
The treatment of rheumatoid arthritis takes place in a multidisciplinary environment, in which a Consultant Rheumatologist, a Consultant Hand Surgeon, a specialist Rheumatology Nurse and a Hand Therapist collaborate to provide individual care.
The initial management of rheumatoid arthritis is carried out by a Consultant Rheumatologist, who will begin treatment of the disease with medication. A Hand Therapist will probably be involved in the care of the patient if there are joints that are painful and require splintage.
In the event that significant pain, restriction of movement and deformity causes problems with the function of the hand, the patient is then seen by a Consultant Hand Surgeon with experience in treating rheumatoid hand problems for a discussion regarding the most appropriate surgical measures which may include soft tissue surgery for rebalancing the tendon forces around the joint, reconstruction of ligaments, joint replacement or joint fusion.
For more information about the procedure, please view the video interview with a patient who has undergone surgery.