Effectiveness of rehabilitation in arthritis

If rehabilitation aims to improve function, the demonstration of its effectiveness requires functional assessment, rather than the standard clinical and laboratory tests beloved of many rheumatologists. Medical interventions are not often evaluated for their contribution to improved function, and this omission must be addressed in the future. The evidence, where it is available, supports a multidisciplinary approach, but increasingly stresses the importance of partnership with the patient, passing back to them the responsibility for maintaining their own exercise programmes and involvement in activities. However, the provision of background support appears to be essential to continued independence. Evidence for the various interventions is reviewed.