What is Rheumatoid Arthritis?

What is Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) is a chronic, unrelenting systemic inflammation disease of joint and connective tissue. It affects women more than men (3:1 ratio). This disease can occur at any stage in life, but prevalence increase with age. Peak incidence is among women aged 40-60.

• While idiopathic, RA is thought to be autoimmune in origin. 70% to 80% of RA suffers test positive for Rheumatoid (RH) factor – an auto-antibody.
• RH factor combines with IgG to form immune complexes.
• These immune complexes and complement components are found in the synovium, synovial fluid, and extra-articular lesions of persons with RA.
• The immune system attacks these complexes, and release enzymes that destroy articular cartilage.

There are 4 stages of RA

1. Synovitis – There is inflammatory of the synovial membrane and joint effusion.
2. Pannus formation – An abnormal form of granulation tissue. An extensive network of new blood vessels form in the synovium. This contributes to the inflammation. Pannus formation extends to the joint margins. Enzymes are released that destroy articular cartilage and bone.
3. Fibrosis – Intra-articular adhesions form as a result of the inflammation. These will lead to decrease Range Of Motion ( ROM ) of associated joints.
4. Bony ankylosis – Calcification of the panni and fibrous tissue. This leads to joint fusion (ankylosis). This leads to deformity and disuse atrophy.

Follow our Oakville Massage clinic for the next blog, we will talk how massage can help to reduce some of the RA symptom.