The purpose of this review is to discuss the range of physical therapy interventions for the individual presenting with arthritis. Rehabilitation of the individual with arthritis is a complex process. Individuals with arthritis present with the impairments of pain, joint contractures, decreased strength, and diminished cardiovascular endurance. These impairments negatively impact the functional status of an individual with arthritis. These issues should be addressed with an individualized physical therapy treatment plan utilizing a variety of therapeutic modalities and exercise. The ultimate goal of rehabilitation is a return to function.
Berkow R.The Merck Manual of Diagnosis and Therapy. Rahway, NJ: Merck Sharp and Dohme Research Laboratories; 1987:
2.
Saunders H.D.Evaluation, Treatment and Prevention of Musculoskeletal Disorders. Minneapolis, MN: Viking Press Inc; 1989:
3.
Hudgins T.H.,Brander V.A.,Rowland W.C..“Rehabilitation Advances in the Treatment of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal Disease,”.Current Opinion in Rheumatology. 1997;9:112-117
4.
Abrams W.B.The Merck Manual of Geriatrics. Rahway, NJ: Merck Sharp and Dohme Research Laboratories; 1990:
5.
Dearborn J.T.,Jergesen H.E..“The Evaluation and Initial Management of Arthritis,”.Orthopedics. 1996;23 (2): 215-240
6.
Hertling D.Management of Common Musculoskeletal Disorders. Philadelphia, PA: J. B. Lippincott; 1990:
7.
Norkin C.C.Measurement of Joint Motion: A Guide to Goniometry. Philadelphia, PA: F. A. Davis Company; 1985:
Kendall F.P.Muscles, Testing and Function. 3.Baltimore, MD: Williams and Wilkens; 1983:
10.
Travell J.Myofascial Pain and Dysfunction: The Trigger Point Manual. Baltimore, MD: Williams and Wilkens; 1983:
11.
Michlovitz S.L.Thermal Agents in Rehabilitation. Philadelphia, PA: F. A. Davis Company; 1990:
12.
Perrot S.,Menkes C.J..“Nonpharma-cological Approaches to Pain in Osteoarthritis,”.Drugs. 1996;52 (Suppl3): 21-26
13.
Ganz S.B.,Harris L.L..“General Overview of Rehabilitation in the Rheumatoid Patient,”.Rheum Dis Clin North Am. 1998;24 (1): 181-201
14.
Jones G.,Francis H.W.,Grimmer K.A..“Ancillary Services in Rheumatology,”.MJA. 1997;166 (21): 434-439
15.
Emery H.M.,Bowyer S.L.,Sisung C.E..“Rehabilitation of the Child With a Rheumatic Disease,”.Pediatr Clin North Am. 1995;42 (5): 1263-1283
16.
Templeton M.S.,Booth D.L.,O'Kelly W.D..“Effects of Aquatic Therapy on Joint Flexibility and Functional Ability in Subjects With Rheumatic Disease,”.JOSPT. 1996;23 (6): 376-381
17.
Gersh M.R.Electrotherapy in Rehabilitation. Philadelphia, PA: F. A. Davis Company; 1992:
18.
Tecklin J.S.Pediatric Physical Therapy. Philadelphia, PA: J. B. Lippincott Company; 1989:
Schilke J.M.,Johnson G.O.,Housh T.J..“Effects of Muscle-Strength Training on the Functional Status of Patients with Osteoarthritis of the Knee Joint,”.Nursing Research. 1996;45 (2): 68-72
21.
Fisher N.M.,White S.C.,Yack H.J..“Muscle Function and Gait in Patients With Knee Osteoarthritis Before and After Muscle Rehabilitation,”.Disability and Rehabilitation. 1997;19 (2): 47-55
22.
Komatireddy G.R.,Leitch R.W.,Cella K..“Efficacy of Low Load Resistive Muscle Training in Patients with Rheumatoid Arthritis Functional Class II and III,”.J. Rheumatol. 1997;24:1531-1539
23.
Bell M.J.,Lineker S.C.,Wilkens A.L..“A Randomized Controlled Trial to Evaluate the Efficacy of Community Based Physical Therapy in the Treatment of People with Rheumatoid Arthritis,”.J. Rheumatol. 1998;25:231-237
