Self-Care Education for Joint Stiffness and Functional Ability in Rheumatoid Arthritis

Rheumatoid arthritis is associated with joint inflammation, stiffness, pain, reduced physical functioning, and limitations in activities of daily living. Appropriate self-care practices may contribute to improving patients' ability to manage symptoms and maintain functional independence.

The self-care educational program will provide patients with information and practical guidance regarding rheumatoid arthritis and its management. The program may include disease-related knowledge, medication adherence, joint protection techniques, exercise, energy conservation, activity modification, symptom management, and appropriate self-care practices.

Participants will be divided into two groups:

Study Group: Participants will receive the self-care educational program in addition to routine care.

Control Group: Participants will receive routine care only. Joint stiffness and functional ability will be assessed at baseline and after implementation of the educational program. The outcomes of the study group will be compared with those of the control group to determine the effectiveness of the program.

Inclusion criteria

• The criteria for selection were: patients" age ranged between 20-65 years old; did not have any auditory, visual or psychological problems. Patients who are able to communicate and participate in the educational program.

Patients who agree to participate in the study.

Exclusion criteria

• Patients with severe cognitive or communication impairment. Patients with other severe musculoskeletal conditions that may affect functional ability.

Patients who have participated in a similar self-care educational program recently.