Background. The frequency of upper limb dysfunction in rheumatoid arthritis and the disability associated with progressive deformation make it necessary to search for treatment solutions. Treatment in a health resort makes comprehensive physiotherapy available to patients, including kinesitherapy, physiotherapy, massages, diet, and climatic treatment. The aim of our study was to estimate the effectiveness of health resort treatment in producing functional improvement of the upper limbs in patients with rheumatoid arthritis. Material and methods. 23 women and 7 men, age 25-65, took part in a comprehensive physiotherapy program in Świeradów-Zdrój, a Polish health resort. Range of movement in the joints was evaluated by goniometry; Lovett’s test was used to measure muscle strength; joint and muscular circumferences were measured; manual efficiency was tested; and the subjects completed a pain questionnaire. All measurements were taken before and after treatment. Results. Improved movement in all upper limb joints was confirmed, especially in flexion and abduction in the shoulder joint (p < 0.001). Moreover, decreased swelling was observed in the elbow and carpal joints (p < 0,001), as well as greater manual dexterity in terms of precision, speed and strength of grip. Insignificant improvement was noted in muscle strength, especially in the extensor muscles of wrist and elbow. No increase in muscle mass was observed. Conclusions. Pain intensity was lower after treatment. Three weeks treatment in a health resort with comprehensive physiotherapy seems to be long enough for significant improvement of upper limb function in patients suffering from rheumatoid arthritis.