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

Rheumatoid arthritis is a chronic inflammatory autoimmune disease that may cause joint stiffness, pain, reduced mobility, and impaired functional ability. Self-care education may help patients improve their knowledge and practices related to disease management, joint protection, physical activity, exercise, energy conservation, and symptom management. This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of a self-care educational program on joint stiffness and functional ability among patients with rheumatoid arthritis. Participants will be assigned to either a study group or a control group. The study group will receive the self-care educational program in addition to routine care, while the control group will receive routine care only. Joint stiffness and functional ability will be assessed before and after implementation of the educational 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.