When is physiotherapy recommended for rheumatoid arthritis?

Rheumatoid arthritis can affect several joints, often including the hands, wrists, feet, knees or shoulders. A physiotherapist can measure movement and strength, identify tasks that strain an inflamed joint, and design exercises that preserve mobility without overloading it. Advice may cover pacing, joint protection, splints or supports, posture, walking and safe aerobic activity. The plan changes when disease activity, pain or fatigue changes.

Ask your rheumatology team about physiotherapy if stiffness makes dressing, gripping, walking or working difficult, or if you are becoming less active. Tell the therapist about swollen joints, fatigue, balance concerns and medicines. During a flare, use the agreed gentler programme and protect painful joints; when symptoms settle, progress strength and endurance gradually.

Arrange a medical review if swelling, warmth, fatigue or morning stiffness is increasing, because the inflammatory treatment may need reassessment. Seek urgent help for a suddenly hot, very painful joint with fever, a new major loss of strength, or sudden trouble walking or using an arm.

Which joints need protection during exercise? What can I do during a flare? Would a hand or foot therapist add useful support? How will we tell whether reduced function comes from inflammation, weakness or joint damage?