The PIP Joint in RA - Principles of Management and Hand Therapy intervention

摘要

The destructive effects of chronic inflammation of the synovium present ongoing and ever changing challenges to all involved in the care of the rheumatoid patient. In the PIP joint, deformity occurs in the presence of both synovitis and biomechanical stress. Hand Therapy treatment of boutonniere and swan-neck deformities therefore aims to treat the symptoms of synovitis, reduce stress on joints, ligaments, tendons and muscles and to restore movement and function. Measurement of success of these interventions currently requires better attention to consistency in outcome study criteria and improved opportunities for research.