“Can physical therapy relieve the inflammation of rheumatoid arthritis?”

If can help.But need medications as well.

My answer is yes and no. Inflammation and pain of any kind including rheumatoid arthritis can be relieved by light touch (manual therapy), but never by heat, cold, massage, manipulation, stretching, strengthening, etc. Specifically it is called Touch-and-Hold of The Precision Method detailed in my book "NO MORE PAIN  All Pain Considered - A Breakthrough". Please visit my website: NoMorePainClinc.com. 

During inflammatory attacks of rheumatoid arthritis, joint structure damage is the essential concern. Anti-inflammatory medication treatment using saw-tooth strategy is most important. Physical therapy for joint protection and modalities such as paraffin dips may help to ease pain and inflammation. Aggressive range of motion exercises shoulder be avoided and reserved to the stage after the inflammation is subsided.