Rehabilitation of the patient with rheumatoid hand involvement

The therapist working with patients with rheumatoid arthritis should consider that they are working with a person with a systemic, chronic disease who may require periodic, long-term treatment. A baseline evaluation helps to establish goals for individual treatment. Reassessment of the patient at various intervals allows the therapist to alter treatment as necessary. In this article, the therapist's role in evaluation and treatment at the various stages of the disease is discussed.