Ace Physiotherapy and Sports in Singapore
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+65 81535374 -
ACE PHYSIO SPORTS
East gate Building, 46 East Coast Road
#08-03 Singapore 428766 -
Opening Hours
Mon to Fri: 08:00am - 8:00pm -
Opening Hours
Sat: 08:00am - 4:00pm
Sunday (By prior appointment)
Rheumatoid Arthritis
What is rheumatoid arthritis?
Rheumatoid arthritis is an inflammatory condition that can affect multiple joints in the body. It typically involves inflammation of the articular surface (the joint lining) and the synovium (the fluid-filled sac covering the joint surface), which can interfere with your daily activities and hobbies. This inflammation occurs because the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks the joints, although the exact cause is unknown. In some cases, the inflammation can also affect the cartilage and ligaments within the joint, often resulting in significant pain.
What are the symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis?
Rheumatoid arthritis can cause a variety of symptoms, which may vary over time. Physiotherapy is an effective way to reduce these symptoms, and at acephysiosports.com, our specialist physiotherapists can provide a comprehensive treatment programme tailored to meet your individual needs.
- Joint pain and tenderness – often affecting the hands, wrists, knees, and feet.
- Swelling – in affected joints, sometimes accompanied by warmth and redness.
- Stiffness – particularly in the morning or after periods of inactivity.
- Fatigue – feeling unusually tired or low in energy.
- Reduced range of motion – difficulty moving affected joints fully.
- Joint deformity – in long-term or severe cases, joints may change shape.
- General malaise – a feeling of being unwell or discomfort throughout the body.
The most commonly affected joints are:
- Hands – particularly the small joints of the fingers.
- Wrists – inflammation can limit movement and grip strength.
- Knees – causing pain and difficulty with walking or climbing stairs.
- Feet and ankles – affecting balance and mobility.
- Shoulders – leading to reduced arm movement and discomfort.
- Elbows – causing stiffness and limited range of motion.
- Hips – potentially affecting walking and daily activities.
Most people with rheumatoid arthritis experience flare-ups at different times, during which symptoms can become more severe. It is important to work with your physiotherapist at acephysiosports.com to develop an action plan that helps you manage flare-ups effectively, allowing you to stay as active as possible during these periods.
How is rheumatoid arthritis diagnosed?
There are several tests used to diagnose rheumatoid arthritis, and it is often the combination of these results that confirms the condition. If you are experiencing any of the symptoms mentioned above, it is important to consult your GP as soon as possible. Early diagnosis allows for more effective treatment.
- Physical examination – assessing joint swelling, tenderness, and range of motion.
- Blood tests – to detect markers of inflammation (e.g., ESR, CRP) and specific antibodies such as rheumatoid factor (RF) and anti-CCP.
- X-rays – to check for joint damage or erosion.
- Ultrasound or MRI – to detect inflammation and early joint changes not visible on X-rays.
- Joint aspiration (arthrocentesis) – analyzing joint fluid to rule out other causes of arthritis.
- Medical history review – including family history and symptom patterns.
Once rheumatoid arthritis has been confirmed, it is important to begin physiotherapy as soon as possible to optimise symptom management. At acephysiosports.com, our physiotherapists will carry out a full assessment and create a comprehensive treatment programme, including a personalised home exercise plan, to help you take control of your condition.
How will physiotherapy help with rheumatoid arthritis?
Physiotherapy can help manage and reduce your symptoms in several ways. At acephysiosports.com, your physiotherapist will encourage you to take an active role in your treatment programme, helping you work towards your personal goals.
- Pain relief – using gentle techniques and exercises to reduce discomfort.
- Improved joint mobility – maintaining and enhancing flexibility in affected joints.
- Muscle strengthening – supporting muscles around inflamed joints to improve function.
- Posture and movement training – correcting alignment and movement patterns to reduce joint strain.
- Energy and fatigue management – pacing activities and balancing rest with exercise.
- Return to daily activities – gradually restoring independence and functional ability.
- Education and self-management – teaching strategies to manage flare-ups and prevent further discomfort.
What physiotherapy will be used for rheumatoid arthritis?
There are several physiotherapy options available to treat rheumatoid arthritis. The choice of treatment depends on factors such as your symptoms and the severity of your condition. At acephysiosports.com, your physiotherapist will work with you to design a personalised programme that optimises your treatment and helps you remain as active as possible.
- Range of motion exercises – to maintain and improve flexibility in affected joints.
- Strengthening exercises – to support muscles around inflamed joints.
- Manual therapy – hands-on techniques to reduce stiffness and improve mobility.
- Posture and movement training – correcting alignment and movement patterns to reduce strain.
- Low-impact aerobic exercises – such as swimming or cycling to maintain overall fitness without stressing joints.
- Hydrotherapy – gentle exercises in water to reduce joint load while improving mobility.
- Education and self-management – guidance on activity pacing, flare-up management, and safe exercise routines.
Summary
Rheumatoid arthritis is an inflammatory condition that primarily affects the joints of the shoulders, knees, wrists, hands, and feet. The inflammation occurs when the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks the tissues in these joints. Common symptoms include stiffness, swelling, fatigue, and pain. Physiotherapy is an effective way to reduce these symptoms and promotes self-management, allowing you to continue with your usual daily activities. At acephysiosports.com, our specialist physiotherapists can create a personalised treatment programme tailored to your needs. To book an appointment, call us today on +65 81535374 or schedule your session online.
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