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Care of the Rheumatoid Arthritic Hand

Presented by Jeanine Beasley

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What is the current best practice for care of the rheumatoid arthritic hand? This course will review pathomechanics of the rheumatoid arthritic process as well as present treatment options based on evidenced-based practice. The current literature will be presented and related to specific treatment approaches including joint protection, orthoses, and modalities.

Meet your instructor

Jeanine Beasley

Jeanine Beasley, EdD, OTRL, CHT, FAOTA is a full professor at Grand Valley State University’s Occupational Science and Therapy Department and is the Coordinator of the Occupational Therapy Hybrid Program in Grand Rapids, Michigan. She is a frequent guest lecturer and has spoken in 19 states and 7 countries. She has authored…

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Chapters & learning objectives

Pathomechanics of the Rheumatoid Process and Orthotics

1. Pathomechanics of the Rheumatoid Process and Orthotics

What is rheumatoid arthritis and what are the pathomechanics of the specific hand deformities? This chapter will go over these deformities in detail; following completion, the participant will be able to list three common hand deformities specific to rheumatoid arthritis.

Orthoses for the Rheumatoid Arthritic Hand

2. Orthoses for the Rheumatoid Arthritic Hand

Using an orthosis to decrease pain and increase function for patients with RA is common practice in the clinic. The current evidence will be presented as well as demonstrations of how to fabricate specific orthoses that have been found to be effective in the literature.

Joint Protection and Modalities for the Rheumatoid Hand

3. Joint Protection and Modalities for the Rheumatoid Hand

Educational behavioral joint protection programs that involve skill practice, goal setting, and home programs are more effective than short instruction or information booklets. Modalities and exercise programs that are based in the current research will be reviewed.