Treatments for Rheumatoid Arthritis

The goals of treatment for rheumatoid arthritis include:

Pain relief
Maintaining the greatest possible mobility and function
Decreasing joint deformity
Improving quality of life

Treatment involves the following:

Lifestyle changes Medications Surgery Alternative and complementary therapies Other treatments

References

Arthritis Foundation website. Available at: http://www.arthritis.org/ .

Ferri F, ed. Ferri’s Clinical Advisor 2010 . 1st ed. Philadelphia, PA: Mosby Elsevier; 2009.

Firestein ED, et al. Kelley’s Textbook of Rheumatology . 8th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Saunders; 2008.

Goldman L, Ausiello D, eds. Cecil Textbook of Internal Medicine . 23rd ed. Philadelphia, PA: Saunders; 2008.

National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases website. Available at: http://www.niams.nih.gov/ .

Revision Information

Reviewer: Marcin Chwistek, MD
Review Date: 09/2011
Update Date: 09/22/2011

This content is reviewed regularly and is updated when new and relevant evidence is made available. This information is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with questions regarding a medical condition.