The Impact of RA in Different Jobs
While RA is different for everyone, in general, the more severe your condition is, the more impact it’s likely to have on you at work.
And while some jobs tend to be more physically demanding than others, virtually all of them require using your hands in some capacity, which can be a real challenge for people with RA.
Other problems come from the office workstation — your desk, chair, and computer, Dr. Ferri says. Sitting in the same position at work for a long period of time can cause pain and stiffness for anyone, but it’s especially difficult for those with RA, Ferri notes.
“Someone at a desk job will need to use ergonomic postures and ergonomic equipment to prevent their symptoms from worsening and impacting their job,” she says.
Doing the same tasks and using the same muscles repeatedly can cause strain on the neck, shoulders, wrists and hands, back, and legs, she adds.
For those with more active jobs, different problems can arise. For example, “Anyone working in construction will need to get accommodations to ensure they are safely using — and not overusing — large equipment,” she says. “The vibration from some heavy-duty pieces of equipment can worsen symptoms of RA and even cause cumulative stress conditions like carpal tunnel syndrome, which can cause someone’s hand function to decline.”