This procedure is called a biopsy. Treatment involves a combination of medication, rest, exercise and methods of protecting the joints. This consists of anti-inflammatory drugs which reduce the swelling, pain and stiffness which result in from the inflammatory response. A patient's response to a particular drug and the degree of disease activity dictate the potency of the drugs prescribed. The main aim of treatment is the control of the inflammatory process early so as to lessen the disability that can result from long-term effects of joint destruction.
Corticosteroids are drugs related to the natural hoemone cortisone.
They are not often used to treat rehumatoid arthritis unless the disease is severe and has not responded to other drugs. The decision to start or stop corticosteroids must be made by your physician. Once inflammation is satisfactorily controlled, appropriate and regular exercises is essential to strengthen muscles weakened by disease. Rheumatoid srthritis often makes joints stiff and restrict their motion if they are not used regularly. Exercises are designed to meet the needs of each patient and should be monitored by professionals specialising in physical medicine.