Rheumatoid Arthritis

What it is
Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is an inflammatory disease in which the synovial membranes lining some joints become thickened, inflamed and produce excess synovial fluid leading to redness, stiffness, swelling and pain.

Inflammation gradually spreads to involve the underlying bone which becomes worn and distorted. Usually, RA affects the smaller joints in your hands and feet but can also occur in the neck, wrists, knees and ankles. People suffering from RA often feel unwell and may notice weight loss, fever and inflammation in other parts of their body such as the eyes. RA affects around 1% of the population, with three times as many women affected as men. A quarter of patients develop symptoms before the age of 30, but most new cases occur in the 40 - 50 age group.

RA is now believed to result from the build-up of a type of immune cell (T-lymphocyte) that attacks the joints leading to inflammation and damage.

Self help measures:
Avoid cold draughts and keep as warm as possible in winter.
If hands are stiff in the morning, exercise them in hot, soapy water first thing in the morning and throughout the day. Frequent hot baths/showers are also soothing.
Some people find hot or cold compresses helpful.

Applying magnetic patches
Magnetic patches can also be applied to acupuncture points over or near the site of pain, as shown in the following illustration. Select the points which most closely relate to the site of discomfort.