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Hydrotherapy for the Treatment of Inflammatory Arthritis
Rheumatoid arthritis is a systemic, inflammatory disorder characteristically involving peripheral joints, often symmetrically. It can also manifest itself in other tissues and organs, for example the heart, lungs, eyes or nervous system. Weight loss, fever, depression, altered functional abilities and body shape and frequently, poor self esteem are common features.
Aims of Treatment
The aims of treatment for inflammatory disorders are:
- Reduction of deformities and increase range of motion of all affected joints; stretching contractures, maintaining range of motion and muscle power around unaffected joints
- promotion of relaxation
- re-education of correct walking patterns
- improvement of functional abilities and morale
Water temperature
Patients immersed in warm water should be carefully observed for adverse reactions and where these occur appropriate action should be taken.
Hydrotherapy as a component of Sports therapy
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