Causes, Symptoms & Cures For Rheumatoid Arthritis

Surgical Options To Repair Joints

Generally, surgery to repair joints is used in cases where medications don't slow or prevent joint damage associated with rheumatoid arthritis. When the joint becomes damaged, a surgical repair might restore the joint's mobility, reduce overall pain, and improve function. A synovectomy is used to remove the joint's inflamed lining in the hips, fingers, wrists, elbows, or knees. Tendon repair surgeries can help in situations where joint damage and inflammation have caused the tendons surrounding the joint to rupture or loosen. A joint fusion surgery might realign or stabilize a joint if joint replacements aren't an option. With a total joint replacement, the damaged portions of the joint are removed, and a prosthetic joint made from plastic and metal is inserted.

Learn about what role physical and occupational therapy play in treating rheumatoid arthritis next.