Can Physical Therapy Help with Rheumatoid Arthritis Symptoms?

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic, inflammatory autoimmune disorder that primarily targets the joints but can also impact other systems in the body. It affects people of all ages, often developing between the ages of 30 and 60. Unlike osteoarthritis, which results from wear and tear on the joints over time, RA causes the immune system to mistakenly attack the lining of the joints, leading to painful swelling, stiffness, and long-term joint damage if not properly managed. One of the most effective, non-pharmacological ways to support individuals living with RA is through physical therapy for rheumatoid arthritis.

Physical therapy for rheumatoid arthritis can play an essential role in managing the symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis and preserving mobility. For individuals navigating the daily challenges of RA, physical therapy for rheumatoid arthritis offers an active, personalized path toward better movement, pain relief, and improved quality of life.

What is Rheumatoid Arthritis?

Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune condition, which means the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks its own tissues. In RA, this attack is focused on the synovium — the lining of the membranes that surround your joints. The resulting inflammation thickens the synovium, which can eventually destroy cartilage and bone within the joint.

This condition commonly affects joints in the hands, wrists, and knees, but it can also involve the shoulders, ankles, hips, and other joints. Over time, the joint can lose its shape and alignment. RA can also cause fatigue, low-grade fever, and loss of appetite, and may affect the skin, eyes, lungs, heart, and blood vessels.

RA symptoms often come and go in periods of flares and remission. During a flare, people may experience joint stiffness (especially in the morning or after periods of rest), swelling, tenderness, and restricted movement.

Common Rheumatoid Arthritis Conditions

Rheumatoid arthritis can manifest in several ways and lead to various joint and systemic complications. Understanding these conditions can help patients and healthcare providers manage RA more effectively.

Joint Deformities

One of the most visible consequences of long-standing RA is joint deformity. Fingers may drift sideways (ulnar deviation), joints may become permanently flexed, or characteristic shapes such as a swan-neck or boutonnière deformity may develop. These changes can severely affect hand function.

Rheumatoid Nodules

These are firm lumps under the skin that often appear near joints. They are most commonly found in the fingers, elbows, or forearms. While typically painless, they can sometimes become infected or interfere with movement.

Joint Instability

Chronic inflammation can weaken the ligaments that stabilize joints, particularly in the cervical spine (neck). This instability can lead to pain and, in rare cases, neurological complications if not addressed.

Fatigue and Malaise

Persistent fatigue is a hallmark of RA and can be just as debilitating as joint pain. The inflammatory nature of the disease, along with poor sleep and reduced activity, can all contribute.

In addition to these common conditions, RA can lead to lesser-known complications:

Interstitial Lung Disease (RA-ILD)

RA can affect lung tissue, causing inflammation and scarring (fibrosis), which may lead to shortness of breath and reduced oxygen exchange. This condition is serious and requires multidisciplinary management.

Vasculitis

RA can cause inflammation of the blood vessels, leading to issues like skin ulcers, nerve damage, or even organ involvement. While rare, it is a serious complication that needs prompt attention.

Osteopenia and Osteoporosis

Chronic inflammation and long-term steroid use in RA patients can lead to weakened bones, making fractures more likely. This is especially concerning in older adults and those with limited mobility.

Dry Eye and Mouth (Sjögren’s Syndrome)

This autoimmune condition can co-occur with RA, causing uncomfortable dryness in the eyes and mouth due to reduced tear and saliva production.

Benefits of Physical Therapy for Rheumatoid Arthritis

Physical therapy for rheumatoid arthritis offers a wide range of benefits for individuals with RA, particularly when it is tailored to the person’s needs and current disease status. A skilled physical therapist can help reduce pain and inflammation, improve strength, and restore or maintain joint function.

During a flare, the primary goal of physical therapy for rheumatoid arthritis is to protect the joints and manage pain. Gentle range-of-motion exercises and isometric strengthening can help maintain joint mobility without increasing stress on inflamed areas. Therapists may use techniques like ice therapy, gentle stretching, or low-impact modalities to reduce discomfort and swelling.

During remission or when inflammation is under control, therapy focuses on rebuilding strength, improving endurance, and enhancing joint stability. A customized exercise plan can improve posture, prevent deformities, and reduce the risk of future joint damage. Patients are also educated on joint protection strategies, energy conservation, and ergonomic adaptations for daily activities.

One major goal of physical therapy for rheumatoid arthritis is to promote movement while avoiding strain on the joints. Therapists can guide patients in choosing appropriate aerobic activities such as swimming, walking, or cycling — exercises that are joint-friendly and improve cardiovascular health. They also introduce strengthening routines that target muscles supporting vulnerable joints, reducing the burden placed on inflamed areas.

Therapists may use assistive devices or recommend orthotics to help with joint alignment, especially for the wrists, knees, or feet. These tools can make everyday tasks easier and less painful. Ultimately, physical therapy for rheumatoid arthritis is a valuable tool in preserving independence and reducing flare severity.

Long-Term Benefits of Physical Therapy

Over time, a consistent physical therapy for rheumatoid arthritis routine can lead to many long-term benefits for individuals with RA. Improved joint flexibility, better balance, and greater independence in daily activities are just a few of the rewards of staying active with professional guidance. By slowing the progression of joint deformities and maintaining muscular strength, physical therapy for rheumatoid arthritis plays a critical role in preserving functional independence.

Moreover, many people with RA report an improvement in mood and overall well-being after engaging in regular, tailored physical activity. Staying active can also help manage other health conditions, such as cardiovascular disease, that are more common in individuals with RA.

Personalized Care for RA at Doylestown Sports Medicine Center

At Doylestown Sports Medicine Center, we understand that no two cases of rheumatoid arthritis are exactly the same. Our team takes a personalized approach, considering your medical history, symptoms, lifestyle, and goals. We work closely with your rheumatologist or other healthcare providers to ensure cohesive care.

Whether you’re newly diagnosed or managing RA for years, physical therapy for rheumatoid arthritis can be a vital part of your long-term health strategy. If you’re curious about how physical therapy for rheumatoid arthritis can help you move better, feel stronger, and live with less pain, give us a call. We’re here to help.

You can also schedule a free discovery visit or request a benefits call back with our insurance team to check if you’re eligible for low-cost or covered physical therapy sessions.

Let’s work together to keep you moving.