Reference no: EM132934157

Mary Pearl, age 60, has come into the physician's office complaining of swelling, stiffness, and arthralgia, especially in her elbows, wrists, and hands. A bone scan revealed acute inflammation in multiple joints with damaged articular cartilage and an erythrocyte sedimentation rate blood test indicated a significant level of acute inflammation within the body. A diagnosis of acute episode of rheumatoid arthritis was made. The physician ordered nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medication and physical therapy. The therapist initiated a treatment program of hydrotherapy and AROM exercises.

1. What pathological condition does this patient have? Look this condition up (using your textbook and/or reliable internet sources) Describe it.

2. What type of long-term damage may occur in a patient with rheumatoid arthritis?

3. What two diagnostic procedures did the physician order? Describe them. What were the results?

4. What treatments were ordered? Explain what the physical therapy procedures involve.

5. The patient is experiencing an acute episode. Explain what this phrase means and contrast it with chronic.