Rheumatoid arthritis. Hand of an elderly woman suffering from rheumatoid arthritis. The fingers are bent abnormally (ulnar deviation) due to damage and swelling of the knuckle joints. Rheuma- toid arthritis is the most severe joint disease which occurs when the body's immune system attacks joint tissue, most often in the hands and feet. The inflamed and painful joints have limited move- ment. There is no cure for rheumatoid arthritis, although drugs may relieve symptoms or check the progress of the disease. Sufferers are usually affected for life; physiotherapy or occupational therapy can help them live with the condition.