RHEUMATOID ARTHRITIS EMPOWERMENT: GETTING YOUR TEAM TOGETHER

People with rheumatoid arthritis have more treatment options than ever before.  Your care will depend on collaborating with a team of healthcare professionals as you form long-term partnerships for your care.  Empowerment means that you will be the leader of the collaboration as you gather your team and make sure they will help you get all the medical care available to you.  Be proactive and stay in control because you will always be your best advocate.  Here is a list of health professionals that you can choose:

1.  primary care provider (PCP) will be your main resource in coordinating referrals and appointments for you to access other members of your team. Your PCP will also provide important overall health maintenance to keep your body strong and nimble in your fight against rheumatoid arthritis.
2. A rheumatologist is essential for every RA patient. This is the specialist who is the most knowledgable and experienced in treating RA.  Even if your symptoms are mild, and even if you are in remission, your rheumatologist be the best at adjusting your treatments as needed. 
3. An orthopedic hand surgeon can treat structural damage causd by RA. For minor pain and damage, 
4. A physical therapist will provide you with strength, stretching, core, and balance exercises that have been shown to improve function and reduce long term pain.
5. An occupational therapist is important if you have frequent flareups or changes in joint alignment that affct your function. This therapist will teach you how to work around these issues to accomplish daily tasks and maintain independence.
6. A nutritionist is a valuable resource for adding to your diet plenty of anti-inflammatory foods known to fight RA. You may benefit from ongoing visits if you are also trying to lose weight to help improve your health. 
7. Mental health resources are important to maintain your well-being as you cope with living with RA. People with RA often feel isolated and overwhelmed, and may have issues related to anxiety and depression.  Keep a list of support groups that you can attend to give and receive encouragement for your fellow community members who share your condition.  If you are experiencing depressed feelings or having other mood disturbances like anxiety, then add a psychologist to your team roster and keep your primary care provider involved.