Understanding Rheumatic Fever: Causes, Symptoms, and Role of Physiotherapy – Physio360.

INTRODUCTION;

Rheumatic fever is a serious inflammatory disease that can develop as a complication of untreated or poorly treated strep throat (Group A Streptococcus infection). Although it primarily affects children between the ages of 5 and 15, it can also occur in adults. Rheumatic fever is a condition that not only causes pain and discomfort but can also lead to long-term complications such as rheumatic heart disease.

At Physio360, we believe in spreading awareness about conditions like rheumatic fever and providing support through rehabilitation, physiotherapy, and lifestyle modifications to ensure faster recovery and long-term health.

What is Rheumatic Fever?

Rheumatic fever is an autoimmune response that occurs when the body’s immune system reacts abnormally to a streptococcal infection. Instead of fighting only the bacteria, the immune system mistakenly attacks its own tissues, leading to inflammation in joints, heart, skin, and nervous system.

Causes and Risk Factors.

• Strep throat or scarlet fever (if left untreated)

• Repeated streptococcal infections

• Genetic susceptibility (family history)

• Poor living conditions and overcrowding

• Weak immunity

  
  

Symptoms of Rheumatic Fever.

The symptoms may vary, but common signs include:

• High fever with fatigue

• Painful, swollen joints (knees, ankles, elbows, or wrists)

• Migratory arthritis (pain shifts from one joint to another)

• Red, raised skin rash

• Small, painless nodules under the skin

• Shortness of breath, chest pain (if the heart is affected)

• Jerky, involuntary body movements (Sydenham chorea)

  
  

Complications of Rheumatic Fever.

If not managed properly, rheumatic fever can lead to:

• Rheumatic heart disease (RHD) – damage to heart valves

• Chronic joint pain and stiffness

• Recurrent episodes of fever and inflammation

• Risk of permanent disability

  
  

Diagnosis.

Doctors may use the Jones Criteria (clinical guidelines) to confirm rheumatic fever, including:

• Throat swab and blood tests for streptococcus infection

• ECG or echocardiogram to check heart involvement

• Physical examination of joints and skin

  
  

Role of Physiotherapy in Rheumatic Fever – Physio360 Approach.

At Physio360 Chennai, physiotherapy plays a vital role in helping patients recover from joint pain, muscle stiffness, and weakness caused by rheumatic fever. Rehabilitation focuses on:

Pain Management.

• Use of safe physiotherapy modalities such as ice packs, ultrasound therapy, and gentle mobilisation.

• Reducing inflammation in painful joints.

  
  

Improving Joint Mobility.

• Range of motion (ROM) exercises to prevent stiffness.

• Gentle stretching to maintain flexibility.

  
  

Strengthening Exercises.

• Focused strengthening of muscles around affected joints.

• Low-impact exercises like cycling, swimming, and walking are good for long-term fitness.

  
  

Cardiopulmonary Rehabilitation.

• For patients with rheumatic heart disease, supervised exercises help improve heart and lung capacity.

• Breathing exercises to enhance oxygen intake.

  
  

Preventing Recurrence.

• Guidance on posture correction and daily activity modification.

• Stress management and lifestyle coaching.

  
  

Lifestyle & Home Care Tips.

• Always complete the full course of antibiotics prescribed for strep throat.

• Maintain good oral and throat hygiene.

• Eat a nutritious diet rich in vitamins and minerals to boost immunity.

• Stay physically active with safe, supervised exercises.

• Regular follow-ups with your doctor and physiotherapist.

  
  

Why Choose Physio360 for Rheumatic Fever Rehabilitation?

At Physio360 Centre in Chennai, our expert physiotherapists:

✔ Provide personalised rehabilitation programs for joint and heart-related complications.

✔ Focus on pain-free recovery and regaining daily functional activities.

✔ Offer advanced physiotherapy modalities and evidence-based exercises.

✔ Create a holistic plan addressing both physical and emotional well-being.

Conclusion.

Rheumatic fever is a preventable and manageable condition if diagnosed early and treated properly. While medications help control infection and inflammation, physiotherapy at Physio360 ensures long-term recovery by restoring mobility, strength, and overall health.

If you or your loved one is struggling with joint pain, weakness, or post-rheumatic complications, visit Physio360 Chennai – your trusted partner for advanced physiotherapy care and holistic rehabilitation.

REFERENCE AND RESEARCH ARTICLE ;

1.Understanding rheumatic feverhttps://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/21953302/.