Rheumatoid Arthritis Research Paper

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Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic inflammatory autoimmune disease – a disorder in which the body’s immune system attacks the joints, connective tissues, muscles, tendons, and fibrous tissue. It is characterized by inflammation and destruction of bone and joints, causing pain, joint stiffness, and muscle weakness. It occurs in more than 1% of American and causes disability in millions (Lee, Hale, Hemingway, & Woolridge, 2012). As a wonder drug for RA is yet to be discovered, people with RA may also experience depression, a feeling of helplessness, and anxiety. Therefore, it is important to diagnose RA as soon as possible and to initiate treatment to slow disease progression so people can remain well and active as possible. The primary goals in treating people with RA are to reduce pain and to slow disease progression, without causing permanent side effects. Conventional treatment consists of a combination of drug therapy utilizing nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) with or without corticosteroids and disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs) (Weisman, 2011). NSAIDs are drugs …show more content…

They can also bring about various side-effects such as gastrointestinal bleeding and fluid retention (Weisman, 2011). On the other hand, DMARDs are drugs that can slow the progress of the …show more content…

Tia chi means great polarity and it is an ancient East Chinese physical exercise that has been practiced for centuries. It is deeply rooted in Chinse Taoist philosophy, which focuses on the natural way of the universe to cultivate internal energy (Lan & Tsang, 2013). Tai chi has recently become popular in treating diseases like rheumatoid arthritis because it is perceived to be safe and natural, offers a chance to feel better, and decreases uncomfortable symptoms such as pain and

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