[Rehabilitation of rheumatic diseases]

Rehabilitation aims at restoration of function and integration of the disabled or chronically ill patient in his social environment. Cooperation of health professionals in a multidisciplinary rehabilitation team is required. Functional deficits are defined on the levels of impairment, activity, and participation. A rehabilitation concept tailored to the individual patient and the use of outcome measures are mandatory. The principles of rehabilitation of rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis are outlined.