4) Physical therapy
Patients with rheumatoid arthritis can also benefit greatly from different physical therapy modalities. Therapeutic exercise can decrease the symptoms and improve the aerobic capacity of these patients. If the patients can tolerate aerobic conditioning, it will improve their maximum oxygen uptake, reduce their cardiovascular risk, prevent joint stiffness, and improve overall health.
Patients who exercise frequently, even with rheumatoid arthritis, are known to have improved joint function when doing their daily activities. They usually feel better and take fewer sick leaves, and have a very low risk of muscle atrophy in the future. The recommended exercise is 30 minutes of aerobic exercise every day for 5 days a week, if possible.