Rheumatoid Arthritis Quiz

Factors increasing the risk of developing rheumatoid arthritis.

A common symptom of rheumatoid arthritis where there is stiffness in joints, especially in the morning, lasting for at least an hour.

Inflammation and swelling in three or more joints simultaneously.

Inflammation present in the same joint on both sides of the body, often affecting hand, wrist, and finger joints.

Firm lumps under the skin, commonly found in pressure points like the elbows, associated with rheumatoid arthritis.

Inflammation of the cervical spine (neck) leading to instability and potential neurological symptoms like headache and tingling fingers.

A protein found in the blood, frequently present in patients with rheumatoid arthritis. Higher levels are associated with increased risk.

Changes in bone structure visible on X-rays, indicating bone damage around the joints, often indicative of rheumatoid arthritis.

The use of physical agents like heat, cold, ultrasound, and electrical stimulation to reduce pain and improve joint movement.

A type of physiotherapy that uses water for exercise and therapy, allowing movement with less stress on joints.

Resting, splinting, and positioning are important strategies to manage painful flare-ups in rheumatoid arthritis.

Specialized supports that help maintain proper positioning and reduce strain on joints, preventing deformities.

Devices that help individuals with limited mobility perform daily tasks and reduce strain on joints.

The increase in temperature inside a joint, especially in rheumatoid arthritis, affects the activity of enzymes that can damage cartilage.

Enzymes that break down cartilage, their activity increases with higher joint temperatures.

A type of electrical stimulation used for pain relief, it works by sending mild electrical impulses to the nerves.

Anti-cyclic citrullinated peptide (anti-CCP) antibodies are a more specific marker for rheumatoid arthritis compared to rheumatoid factor.

X-rays are useful for tracking the progression of rheumatoid arthritis. In early stages, there might be no visible changes on X-ray, but later on, changes like juxta-articular osteopenia (bone density loss near joints) might occur.

MRI scans are particularly effective in detecting early and subtle changes in rheumatoid arthritis, making them a useful tool for diagnosis. They provide superior visualization of soft tissues compared to X-rays.

Disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs) are a key treatment for rheumatoid arthritis. They aim to slow down disease progression and protect joints.

While NSAIDs can help manage pain and inflammation, they don't address the underlying cause of rheumatoid arthritis. They are a short-term option.

Biologic response modifiers, also known as biologics, are medications used to suppress the immune system and reduce inflammation in rheumatoid arthritis.

Corticosteroids are potent anti-inflammatory drugs that can be used to manage symptomatic flare-ups of rheumatoid arthritis.

Physical therapy is a vital part of rheumatoid arthritis management. Its goals include pain control, improving range of motion, preventing deformities, and boosting functional abilities.

Therapy gloves designed to provide warmth, aiding in pain management and improved hand function.

Therapy gloves used for compression, often recommended for reducing swelling and pain in hands.

Exercises aimed at maintaining or increasing flexibility in joints. This can involve passive, assisted, or free movements.

A type of ROM exercise where someone else moves the joint for you. It helps maintain joint mobility.

A type of ROM exercise where you help move your joint.

A type of ROM exercise that allows for full, independent movement of the joint.

Exercises designed to improve overall fitness, such as swimming, walking, or cycling.

Exercises that build strength and endurance by engaging muscles against resistance. Examples include isometric exercises.

X-ray findings in the early stages of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) may be subtle or absent. In some cases, it might show reduced bone density near the joints (juxta-articular osteopenia), soft tissue swelling, and narrowing of joint spaces.

As rheumatoid arthritis progresses, bony erosions may form, and the joints might partially dislocate (subluxation).

The most common hand deformities in rheumatoid arthritis are ulnar deviation at the metacarpophalangeal (MCP) joints, boutonniere deformities, and swan neck deformities.

Ulnar deviation refers to the fingers drifting towards the little finger side of the hand, often occurring at the MCP joints.

A boutonniere deformity is a flexed PIP joint and an extended DIP joint, causing a characteristic button-shaped appearance.

A swan neck deformity is characterized by a flexed DIP joint and an extended PIP joint.

Hallux valgus (bunion), dropped metatarsal heads (the balls of the feet sink down), hammertoes, and claw toes are common foot deformities associated with rheumatoid arthritis.

The knee in rheumatoid arthritis can develop fixed flexion deformity (the knee is stuck in a bent position), valgus deformity (knees point outward), and external rotation (the lower leg twists outwards).

An exercise program aiming to strengthen and improve range-of-motion in the hands, incorporating mobility exercises and strength exercises using resistance tools like therapy putty, TheraBand or hand exerciser balls.

A type of exercise therapy where a minimum of 8-10 exercises, repeated 8-10 times each, is performed with a minimal initial intensity of 30-50% of the maximum weight one can lift for a single repetition.

Exercises that focus on improving stability and coordination of a specific joint by stimulating the sensorimotor system, commonly including activities like standing on a balance board, improving motion control, balance and coordination.

An approach to treating hand pain, emphasizing proper hand function and including seven mobility exercises and four strength exercises with resistance, incorporating various tools like therapy putty, TheraBand, or hand exerciser balls.

Exercises that help improve overall physical and mental well-being, including stretching, strengthening and balance exercises, along with mindfulness techniques, suitable for people with rheumatoid arthritis.