Physical therapy
Rheumatoid diseases


Rheumatoid arthritis
Individual  approach to accomodate to current condition
Acute stage: cryotherapy
                       liquid nitrogen- localy, whole body
In remisions: parafin wraps
                          whirpool, aquatic therapy
                          ultrasound, laser

Physical rest
Positioning in a sling
Thermoplastic splints
Functional splinting
Passive movements
Traction, relieving tractions
Cervical soft tissue relieving tractions
Relaxation
Joint mobilisation
Isometric  contractions
Rheumatoid  artritis

Gradualy more active movements
-to strengthen  atrophic muscles
-
Active exercise: muscle tone, ROM, muscle strength
Gait training (crutches)
Aerobic fitness training
Occupational therapy
Balneology
Rheumatoid  artritis

Ancylosing  spondylitis
Daily exercice program- daily routine at least 30 minutes/day
Early education about the disease
Cooperation of the patient
Physical therapy is fundamental
Active movements every day
The aim- to slow down spinal ancylosing  process
                 to prevent kyphotic  deformity

Ancylosing  spondylitis
Spinal and thoracic mobility
Muscle balance and ROM
Postural corrections
Maximum breathing capacity
Patient´s overal fitness

Ancylosing  spondylitis
1. Stage of high level activity:
Positioning
Passive exercise
Breathing  exercise
Soft tissue techniques
Active exercise

Ancylosing  spondylitis
2. Stage of low level  activity:
Postural reeducation
Gentle mobilisation  of sacroiliacal joints
Spine and rib mobilisations
Release of shortened muscles
Chest breathing
Deep spine exercise
General relaxation

Ancylosing  spondylitis
2. Stage of low level  activity:
Maintenance of optimal  mobility
Stretching, exercise into backward bending
Somatognostic training
Swing movements
Using of balls, wands, resistive bands, wall bars
Group exercise
Physical therapy:
Magnetic field application, ultrasound, electrotherapy
Balneotherapy