title: Joint ventures: helping those with rheumatoid arthritis live well.
abstract: OBJECTIVE
  Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune, chronic inflammatory disorder that causes pain, swelling, stiffness, loss of joint function, and reduced quality of life. Yoga therapy may help individuals with RA manage stress and increase well-being. This study focused on the identification of therapeutic objectives and a methodology to achieve symptom relief, regain function, and enhance quality of life for individuals with RA.
  
  
  METHODS
  Four women with RA participated in private yoga therapy sessions for 2.5 months. Assessment based, tailored home practices were developed and modified to address participant - identified goals.
  
  
  RESULTS
  Participants reported decreased pain, fatigue, swelling, and flares; increased energy; pain-free range of motion and strength around affected joints; and a heightened sense of well-being.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  Tailored yoga therapy that emphasizes stress reduction may be beneficial for individuals with RA.
authors.affiliation: Essence: Viniyoga Therapy for Health and Well-Being.
authors.forename: Aggie
authors.initials: A
authors.lastname: Stewart
mesh_terms: D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D001172:Arthritis, Rheumatoid / Q000523:psychology / Q000628:therapy*; D005260:Female; D006759:Hospital-Physician Joint Ventures; D006801:Humans; D008875:Middle Aged; D011788:Quality of Life; D016896:Treatment Outcome; D015013:Yoga
keywords: fatigue management; meditation; pain management; rheumatoid arthritis; stress reduction; structured writing; yoga; yoga snack; yoga therapy