Answer:
Dear
Elsa,
There
is no known cure for rheumatoid arthritis.
To date,
the goal of treatment in rheumatoid arthritis is to reduce joint inflammation
and pain, maximize joint function, and prevent joint destruction and
deformity.
Newer
medications that represent a novel approach to the treatment of rheumatoid
arthritis are products of modern biotechnology.
These
are referred to as the biologic medications or biological response
modifiers. In comparison with traditional DMARDs, the biologic medications
have a much more rapid onset of action and can have powerful effects
on stopping progressive joint damage.
In general,
their methods of action are also more directed, defined, and targeted.
While
biologic medications are often combined with traditional DMARDs in
the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis, they are generally not used
with other biologic medications because of the unacceptable risk for
serious infections.
The Prosorba
column therapy involves pumping blood drawn from a vein in the arm
into an apheresis machine, or cell separator.
This
machine separates the liquid part of the blood (the plasma) from the
blood cells.
The Prosorba
column is a plastic cylinder about the size of a coffee mug that contains
a sand-like substance coated with a special material called Protein
A.
Protein
A is unique in that it binds unwanted antibodies from the blood that
promote the arthritis.
The Prosorba
column works to counter the effect of these harmful antibodies.
The Prosorba
column is indicated to reduce the signs and symptoms of moderate to
severe rheumatoid arthritis in adult patients with long-standing disease
who have failed or are intolerant to disease-modifying antirheumatic
drugs (DMARDs).
The exact
role of this treatment is being evaluated by doctors, and it is not
commonly used currently.
Proper,
regular exercise is important in maintaining joint mobility and in
strengthening the muscles around the joints.
Swimming
is particularly helpful because it allows exercise with minimal stress
on the joints.
Physical
and occupational therapists are trained to provide specific exercise
instructions and can offer splinting supports.
For example,
wrist and finger splints can be helpful in reducing inflammation and
maintaining joint alignment.
Devices
such as canes, toilet seat raisers, and jar grippers can assist in
the activities of daily living. Heat and cold applications are modalities
that can ease symptoms before and after exercise.
