Rheumatoid Arthritis

Rheumatoid arthritis

Rheumatoid arthritis makes joints hurt, swell and stiffen. Eventually they can become deformed. It happens when the body’s immune system attacks joints and the surrounding soft tissues.

A joint is where two bones meet.

Normal joint

The synovial membrane becomes inflamed and thickened.

The joint capsule swells.

The cartilage is invaded by the synovial membrane.

An enzyme is released which digests the cartilage and bone.

Arthritic joint

The body’s defensive system attacks the joint, causing inflammation and thickening.

The joint capsule holds everything together.

The synovial membrane lines it and releases a slippery fluid into the space between bones.

Cartilage covers the ends of the bones and cushions them when they move.

The joint loses its shape and alignment. Pain results, movement is lost and eventually the joint is destroyed.

Text and illustrations by Kevin T. Boyd

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Acupressure for pain of arthritis
Here are lists of acupressure points for joint pain of the Fingers, Elbow, Knees, Foot, on PointFinder.org.
If this is your first time, please read the instructions. Don’t use acupressure to replace standard emergency procedures or licensed medical treatment. If you are seriously injured or have acute symptoms seek urgent medical treatment.

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