Nursing Care for Rheumatoid Arthritis Patients with the Application of Rheumatic Gymnastics for Pain Management

Abstract

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic autoimmune disease that causes joint inflammation, pain, and a decrease in patients' quality of life. This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of rheumatic gymnastics as part of nursing care in pain management for RA patients. A descriptive case study with a nursing care approach was used, involving an RA patient at a Public Health Center. The intervention was carried out for four weeks with gymnastics sessions three times per week. The results show a significant decrease in pain intensity, increased joint flexibility, and improved patient quality of life. In conclusion, rheumatic gymnastics has proven effective as a non-pharmacological method in RA pain management. It is recommended that rheumatic gymnastics be integrated into nursing care programs in health facilities to improve patient independence in pain management.