Imagine waking up each morning with joint ache, making even simple tasks feel like herculean tasks. For many people , this is the reality of living with Rheumatoid Arthritis.

Fortunately, advances in medical science and comprehensive treatment options offer hope and relief.

MGM Healthcare Chennai, a premier medical institution that provides top notch facilities and compassionate care to their patients, provides exceptional treatment for managing Rheumatoid Arthritis.

This institution stands as a beacon of hope for those seeking to reclaim their lives from the grips of this condition.

In this blog, Karetrip will delve into the multifaceted treatment options for rheumatoid arthritis available at MGM Healthcare.

Understanding Rheumatoid Arthritis

Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disease, characterised by inflammation of the lining of the joints, leading to pain, stiffness, and swelling. Over time, this inflammation can cause irreversible damage to the joint tissues, bones, and cartilage, resulting in deformities and loss of function.

It can affect people of all ages, but it is more common in women than men. It can manifest with symptoms such as

• Pain and swelling in multiple joints

• Morning stiffness lasting more than 30 minutes

• Fatigue and fever

• Rheumatoid nodules

MGM Healthcare: A Leading Center for Rheumatoid Arthritis Treatment

MGM Healthcare is known for its top notch facilities, expert rheumatologists, and multi-disciplinary approach to treating rheumatoid arthritis. The hospital offers a wide range of treatment options designed to reduce symptoms, improve quality of life, and slow disease progression.

Expert Team of Rheumatologists: MGM Healthcare boasts a team of experienced rheumatologists who specialise in the diagnosis and management of the condition.These specialists work closely with patients to create individualised treatment plans based on the latest research and medical advancements.

Advanced Diagnostic Capabilities: The hospital offers comprehensive blood tests, imaging studies such as X-rays, MRI, and ultrasound, and joint fluid analysis to determine the severity of the disease and monitor its progression.

Personalised Treatment Plans: Rheumatoid arthritis affects each patient differently, and MGM Healthcare believes in a personalised approach. The hospital tailors treatment plans based on the patient's symptoms, lifestyle, and overall health. The goal is to relieve symptoms, prevent joint damage, and maintain joint function.

Treatment Options for Rheumatoid Arthritis at MGM Healthcare

MGM Healthcare offers a comprehensive range of treatment options including medications, lifestyle modifications, physical therapy, and surgical interventions when necessary. Let's explore each of these in detail:

1. Medications for Rheumatoid Arthritis

• Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs): These drugs help relieve pain and reduce inflammation. They are often used to manage mild symptoms but do not alter the course of the disease.

• Corticosteroids: These powerful anti-inflammatory drugs can quickly reduce inflammation and pain. They are usually prescribed for short-term relief during flare-ups.

• Disease-Modifying Antirheumatic Drugs (DMARDs): DMARDs are the backbone of this treatment. They work by suppressing the immune system and slowing the progression of the disease. Methotrexate is one of the most commonly prescribed DMARDs.

• Biologic DMARDs (Biologics): Biologics are newer medications that target specific parts of the immune system. They are often prescribed when traditional DMARDs are not effective. Examples include TNF inhibitors like adalimumab and etanercept.

• Janus Kinase (JAK) Inhibitors: These oral medications block specific enzymes that play a role in the immune response. JAK inhibitors, such as tofacitinib and baricitinib, offer an alternative for patients who do not respond to biologics.

• MGM Healthcare's rheumatologists carefully monitor patients on these medications, adjusting doses and combinations as needed to achieve optimal results with minimal side effects.

2. Lifestyle Modifications

Living with Rheumatoid Arthritis can be challenging, but lifestyle changes can make a significant difference in managing symptoms and improving overall well-being. MGM Healthcare encourages patients to adopt a healthy lifestyle as part of their treatment plan.

Key recommendations include

• Regular Exercise: Low-impact exercises like swimming, walking, and yoga can help improve joint flexibility and reduce stiffness. MGM Healthcare offers physiotherapy programs tailored to the needs of patients.

• Dietary Changes: An anti-inflammatory diet rich in omega-3 fatty acids, fruits, vegetables, and whole grains can help reduce inflammation. Patients are advised to avoid processed foods, sugary snacks, and excessive salt.

• Weight Management: Maintaining a healthy weight reduces pressure on the joints and can improve mobility.

• Stress Reduction: Stress management techniques like meditation, deep breathing, and relaxation exercises are often recommended.

3. Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation

Physical therapy plays a crucial role in Rheumatoid Arthritis treatment, helping patients maintain joint function, reduce pain, and improve mobility. At MGM Healthcare, the physical therapy team works closely with rheumatologists to develop personalised exercise programs for each patient. These programs are designed to

• Strengthen muscles around affected joints

• Improve joint flexibility and range of motion

• Reduce pain and stiffness

• Prevent further joint damage

MGM Healthcare's rehabilitation centre is equipped with advanced equipment and facilities to support patients in their recovery. Occupational therapy is also offered to help patients adapt to daily activities and improve their quality of life.

4. Surgical Interventions

In some cases, when conservative treatments fail to control symptoms or prevent joint damage, surgery may be necessary. MGM Healthcare offers a range of surgical options to restore function and alleviate pain in advanced cases, including

• Synovectomy: This procedure involves removing the inflamed lining of the joint (synovium) to reduce pain and swelling.

• Tendon Repair: Rheumatoid Arthritis can cause tendons around joints to rupture or become damaged. Surgery can help repair these tendons and restore movement.

• Joint Replacement (Arthroplasty): For patients with severe joint damage, joint replacement surgery may be the best option. MGM Healthcare specialises in hip, knee, and shoulder replacements, using the latest techniques for minimal recovery time and improved outcomes.

• Joint Fusion (Arthrodesis): In cases where joint replacement is not an option, joint fusion surgery can provide stability and reduce pain by fusing two bones together.

The information provided represents the views and opinions of Karetrip. It is crucial to conduct your own independent research before making any decisions regarding your healthcare journey.