[Physical therapy and rehabilitation in rheumatic diseases]

General principles of physical medicine and rehabilitation of rheumatic diseases are described. In knee and hip osteoarthritis it is important to protect full extension and in evolutive phase treat with drugs, unloading and physical therapy. Rest and ice are efficacious in active rheumatoid arthritis and in chronic phase all procedures and exercises are recommended with respect to pain threshold. Physical therapy for spondy larthropathies is directed to maintenance range of motion exercise for spine and breathing exercises. Swimming is the most appropriate recreational activity for spondylarthropathies.