Arthritis and Rheumatic Diseases

More than 53 million adults have a form of doctor- diagnosed arthritis, limiting their ability to participate in typical daily activities. With the aging population in the United States, it is projected that by the year 2040, this number will rapidly increase to 78 million adults living with a form of doctor-diagnosed arthritis. While doctors and rheumatologists are focused on the medical aspects of treating rheumatic diseases, therapists can play a pivotal role on the healthcare team to educate patients on prevention and management of symptoms related to arthritis. Therapists can expand their role by dedicating the time to empower patients to self-manage arthritis to decrease pain, improve function and quality of life.

This course will focus on a comprehensive approach for therapists to treating common arthritis and rheumatic diseases as a primary diagnosis. Participants will gain a betterunderstanding of the disease process and management of osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, systemic lupus erythematosus, and fibromyalgia. Participants will be able to develop a patient-centered approach to creating individualized treatment plans based on current evidence- based research, positioning themselves to maintain a steady referral base of clients.

Highlights

• Differential diagnosis for symptoms associated with osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, systemic lupuserythematosus, and fibromyalgia
• The latest research, biology and impacts of arthritis on our aging population
• Evidence-based practices to develop treatment plans for patients with arthritis
• Best practices to provide positive functional outcomes for activities of daily living
• Practical case study assessments to help better identify issues arising from arthritis pain
• Develop an arthritis program to treat patients the next day

Target Audience: Physical Therapists, Physical Therapist Assistants, Occupational Therapists, Occupational Therapy Assistants, Athletic Trainers