Rheumatoid arthritis physical therapy has been and remains one of the most important therapies for relieving joint pain and reducing the rate of symptoms, especially since rheumatoid arthritis is a chronic and debilitating disease that affects a patient’s ability to perform daily tasks normally. However, thanks to specialized physical therapy programs, especially home physiotherapy in Dubai and home nursing services in Dubai, patients can reduce symptoms and enjoy a more comfortable life.
Rheumatoid arthritis physical therapy
Rheumatoid arthritis physical therapy is widely used by many patients to relieve pain and symptoms of this condition, especially since physiotherapy treatment for rheumatoid arthritis does not involve harmful drugs or painkillers. This makes it one of the most effective and safest treatment options in these cases.
What Is Rheumatoid Arthritis?
Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disorder that primarily affects the joints, particularly the small ones, such as those in the hands and feet, causing chronic inflammation that results in pain and stiffness, and may also lead to joint damage over time.
Also read: Ankylosing spondylitis physical therapy exercises
How Can a Physical Therapist Help with RA in Dubai?
A physical therapist in Dubai develops a rheumatoid arthritis physical therapy protocol, which includes exercise programs tailored to rheumatoid arthritis patients, aimed at relieving pain and stiffness, improving range of motion, and enhancing the ability to perform daily activities.
These physiotherapy sessions can be provided in the clinic or via home physiotherapy in Dubai.
Best Physical Therapy Exercises for RA in the UAE
Among rheumatoid arthritis and physical therapy, the most important and successful examples of rheumatoid arthritis physical therapy exercises that effectively contribute to relieving pain and alleviating symptoms are the following:
1. Joint Range-of-Motion Exercises
These rheumatoid arthritis physical therapy exercises aim to maintain joint mobility and prevent stiffness, such as arm raises, knee bends, or gentle wrist movements.
Doctors recommend performing these exercises daily to stimulate joints to function smoothly, especially during periods of inactivity. However, it is important to avoid excessive stress or painful movements on the joints.
2. Low-Impact Strengthening Exercises
These exercises help strengthen the muscles surrounding joints without overloading them, providing better support for the inflamed joint. These exercises include squeezing a rubber ball, using a light elastic band, and others.
They should be performed gradually and under the supervision of a physical therapist to avoid fatigue or worsening inflammation.
3. Low-Impact Flexibility Exercises
Low-impact flexibility exercises, such as Yoga and Pilates exercises, significantly improve flexibility and reduce muscle tension. They also promote balance and relaxation without putting stress on joints.
These rheumatoid arthritis physical therapy exercises should be performed with stable postures and deep breathing.
They are also ideal for chronic conditions, but should be performed under the supervision of a specialized physical therapist and with the assistance of home care nursing in Dubai.
4. Hydrotherapy
Hydrotherapy is one of the most successful physiotherapy management approaches for rheumatoid arthritis. It is performed in a warm pool, reducing body pressure on the joints, allowing for easy, pain-free movement.
This treatment also helps reduce swelling and improve muscle strength and flexibility, making it particularly beneficial for patients suffering from severe pain, especially the elderly or those with mobility limitations.
5. Juvenile rheumatoid arthritis treatment exercises
These rheumatoid arthritis physical therapy exercises are designed specifically for children to improve mobility and healthy joint development, focusing on simple and fun exercises such as arm movements, sitting and standing, and therapeutic play.
These exercises must be performed under the supervision of a specialist, often as part of a home treatment plan using recreational methods that stimulate the child psychologically and physically.
Among the most important benefits of rheumatoid arthritis physical therapy exercises is that they are adapted to the size and weakness of the child’s body and also help him relieve pain.
Also read: Ankylosing spondylitis physical therapy
Physical Therapy for Rheumatoid Arthritis in Hands
Rheumatoid arthritis physical therapy sessions here focus on light exercises to strengthen hand muscles, improve flexibility, and relieve stiffness, such as:
1. Squeeze Ball Exercise
Hold a small, soft rubber ball in the palm of your hand, gently squeeze it for 5 seconds, then release. Repeat 10 times with each hand.
This exercise strengthens the muscles in your palm and fingers, helps improve grip, and reduces stiffness.
2. Finger Extension Exercise
Lie your hand flat on a flat surface, then gently extend your fingers until they are fully extended. Hold the position for 5 seconds, then relax. Repeat 10 times.
This exercise helps reduce joint stiffness and improve finger flexibility over time.
3. Wrist Flexion & Extension Exercise
Extend your arm forward with your palm facing upward. Using your other hand, gently press your fingers to bend your wrist downward, then upward. Hold each position for 5 seconds.
This exercise helps in maintaining wrist mobility and reducing pain caused by joint stiffness.
4. First to Open Hand Exercise
Start by gently clenching your fist, then fully open your hand and straighten your fingers. Repeat this movement slowly 10 times.
This exercise helps improve blood flow to the joints, while also relieving morning stiffness common in rheumatoid arthritis patients.
5. Finger Pinch Exercise
Touch the tip of your thumb to the tip of each finger on your other hand, one by one, forming a small circle with each finger. Repeat each movement 5 times.
Practicing this exercise helps improve fine motor coordination and flexibility, especially for daily tasks such as typing or unbuttoning.
Also read: Physical therapy for golf elbow
Benefits of Physical Therapy for RA in Dubai
The most important benefits of physical therapy for RA patients include:
- Physical therapy effectively helps relieve swelling associated with arthritis and reduce pain through regular exercise and manual therapy tailored to the patient’s condition.
- Enhances joint flexibility, thus facilitating daily movement and reducing the feeling of stiffness, especially in the morning or after periods of rest.
- Regular treatment helps protect joints from wear and tear, thus preventing deformities that can hinder movement and affect the external structure of the joint.
- It helps patients perform daily tasks independently, thus enhancing their self-confidence and allowing them to move easily inside and outside the home.
- Physical therapy helps relieve feelings of frustration and bad moods, as it helps relieve chronic pain and promotes a sense of well-being.
Physical Therapy Protocol for RA Patients in the UAE
The physical therapy protocol for RA patients in the UAE always includes the following:
- Initial assessment.
- Developing an appropriate exercise plan,
- Scheduling frequent manual or hydrotherapy sessions,
- Providing home care guidance in collaboration with the home nursing service.
Also read: Techniques of chest physiotherapy
Risks and Precautions During RA Treatment in Dubai
To avoid worsening the condition or increasing inflammation and pain, the following precautions should be taken into consideration:
- Avoid exercising during periods of active inflammation.
- Do not overload or overexert swollen joints.
- Use heat or cold compresses, depending on the condition.
- Consult your doctor regularly to avoid any errors in your treatment plan.
Tips for Managing RA Symptoms at Home in the UAE
It is important to follow the physiotherapy management for rheumatoid arthritis advice provided by doctors, such as:
- Make sure to do light exercises daily under the supervision of a physical therapist.
- Apply warm compresses, particularly to the painful area, to reduce stiffness.
- Get adequate rest and sleep, and avoid fatigue.
- Take your medications (prescribed only) regularly.
- Request home nursing services in Dubai (If needed).
Also read: Shoulder pain physiotherapy treatment
Get Expert RA Physiotherapy at Home in Dubai
Because your health and well-being are our top priorities, Lana Life Care in Dubai offers home physiotherapy sessions for rheumatoid arthritis patients, supervised by licensed therapists, as part of safe and effective programs to relieve pain and improve mobility.
Start your journey to better mobility and a pain-free life with our top-notch rheumatoid arthritis physical therapy services.
Book your home session today with Lana Life Care now
FAQ
Can you do physical therapy with rheumatoid arthritis?
Yes, it is an essential part of rheumatoid arthritis treatment to control symptoms and improve mobility.
What is physical therapy for rheumatoid arthritis?
Refer to a set of exercises and manual techniques designed for rheumatoid arthritis patients to relieve pain, strengthen muscles, and improve joint function.
What are the physical treatments for rheumatoid arthritis?
The most important physical treatments for rheumatoid arthritis are heat or cold therapy, hydrotherapy, and muscle relaxation techniques.
What do physiotherapists do for rheumatoid arthritis?
The physical therapist assesses the condition, develops a personalized treatment plan, and monitors the recovery or progression of the disease.
What exercises are good for rheumatoid arthritis?
The best rheumatoid arthritis physical therapy exercises include low-impact exercises such as walking, swimming, light stretching, and joint flexibility exercises.
Can physio improve arthritis?
Absolutely; it helps reduce stress on joints, reduce pain and stiffness, and prevent deformities.
Sources:
Physical Therapy and Occupational Therapy