Rheumatoid arthritis (often erroneously called rheumatism) is the most frequent inflammatory disorder affecting the joints; and sometimes completely destroying them. This disease is about two to three times as common in women as in men, which cannot yet be explained. Rheumatoid arthritis afflicts about 0.5 to 1 percent of the population.
Basically this illness can develop at any age, however, its onset is most common at the age of about 25 or 50. In approximately 10 percent of the patients the chronic disease leads to disability. Even children and young people can be afflicted by this insidious disease. Sometimes there is a spontaneous remission and in three quarters of the patients the symptoms can be alleviated. Usually rheumatoid arthritis shows a gradual onset, but it can also start all of a sudden.
The treatment of rheumatoid arthritis focuses on slowing-down and delaying the course of the disease, as well as on easing pain. Medical treatment should be started immediately after the diagnosis was made. Physical therapy is of special importance for maintaining joint mobility. Acute therapy should be followed by rehabilitation measures. With the help of physiotherapy, work therapy, and occupational therapy rheumatism patients can learn how to live with this illness. There are orthopedic aids that can help to cope with everyday life. If soft forms of treatment are no longer sufficient, surgery or implant of artificial joints are employed to relieve from pain.
