The Minnesota arthritis training program: Emphasis on self-management, not compliance

Based on a needs assessment of our ambulatory patients and review of available arthritis education programs, we developed an innovative education and exercise program, the Minnesota Arthritis Training Program (MATP). Patients are taught self-management skills including how to: (1) interpret changing physical symptoms and limitations caused by joint inflammation and apply modifications to their individualized exercise program; (2) recognize common drug toxicites and use a decision analysis schema to manage side effects to decrease the risk of serious toxicity and decrease dependency on professionals safely; (3) develop strategies to modify activity schedules to make the most of limited stamina; (4) recognize and understand psychological problems produced by rheumatoid arthritis (RA) including sexual dysfunction, depression and breakdown of communication; and (5) reconstitute social support systems.