Disclaimer: This article is for general educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a qualified health professional, including your rheumatologist, for advice specific to your condition. © 2026 Better Physiotherapy Bundoora.
Physiotherapy is a cornerstone of rheumatoid arthritis management — not just for managing pain, but for maintaining joint function, reducing fatigue, and helping people with RA live full and active lives. The old advice to rest and protect joints has been replaced by evidence-based exercise that is safe, effective, and essential.
The Role of Physiotherapy in RA Management
In rheumatoid arthritis, physiotherapy works alongside medical management (DMARDs, biologics) rather than as a replacement for it. Physiotherapy cannot stop the autoimmune process — but it can:
- Maintain and improve joint range of movement
- Prevent muscle wasting around affected joints
- Reduce pain through targeted exercise and manual techniques
- Improve fatigue, sleep, and cardiovascular health through aerobic exercise
- Reduce fall risk in older adults with RA
- Provide hand therapy and splinting for wrist and finger involvement
- Educate on joint protection principles for daily activities
Exercise During Flares vs Remission
Exercise prescription in RA is adapted to disease activity:
- During a flare: Gentle range-of-movement exercises within pain limits, pool-based exercise (warm water reduces joint pain), rest for acutely inflamed joints
- During stable disease: Progressive resistance training, aerobic exercise 150+ minutes per week, and sport or recreational activity as tolerated
Hand Therapy for RA
RA commonly affects the small joints of the hands and wrists. Physiotherapy and occupational therapy for RA hands includes:
- Resting and working splints to reduce inflammation and maintain alignment
- Hand exercises to maintain grip strength and finger range of movement
- Joint protection techniques for daily activities (cooking, typing, opening jars)
- Adaptive equipment recommendations
RA Physiotherapy at Better Physiotherapy Bundoora
We work with rheumatology patients across Melbourne's northern suburbs, coordinating with rheumatologists to provide integrated care. Medicare EPC plans and private health fund rebates apply. Call (03) 9467 6900 or book online.
Frequently Asked Questions
How is rheumatoid arthritis different from osteoarthritis?
Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune condition where the immune system attacks joint lining (synovium), causing inflammation, pain, and joint damage. It typically affects multiple joints symmetrically and often affects the hands, wrists, and feet first. Osteoarthritis is a degenerative condition from cartilage wear. RA is managed primarily with disease-modifying medications plus physiotherapy; OA management focuses more on load management and exercise.
What exercises should I do with rheumatoid arthritis?
The evidence supports a combination of aerobic exercise (walking, swimming, cycling) and resistance training for RA. Range-of-movement exercises maintain joint flexibility. Hydrotherapy is excellent during flares. Exercise intensity should be matched to disease activity — during remission, more vigorous exercise is appropriate; during flares, gentle range-of-movement and pool exercise are preferred.
What is joint protection for rheumatoid arthritis?
Joint protection is a set of principles that reduce force through inflamed or damaged joints during daily activities. Key principles include: spreading load over larger joints (using palms instead of fingers), avoiding sustained grip, using assistive devices (jar openers, lever taps), maintaining good posture, and balancing activity with rest. Physiotherapists and occupational therapists teach these skills.
Can physiotherapy help with RA-related fatigue?
Yes. Fatigue is one of the most debilitating symptoms of RA, and graded exercise therapy is proven to reduce RA-related fatigue. Pacing strategies, sleep hygiene, and activity management also help. Physiotherapists trained in chronic disease management can provide comprehensive fatigue management programs.
Ashley Haleel
Physiotherapist & Owner — Better Physiotherapy Bundoora