Knee Pain
I was diagnosed with RA in October of 2020. The Rheumatologist prescribed Hydroxychloroquine and Leflunomide but I feel they are not doing much to control the pain, stiffness and inflammation in my knees. She recently prescribed Humira and I just had my first injection a few days ago, so I can’t report on its effectiveness yet. Does anyone have experience with this treatment plan they would be willing to share, as I’m growing exceedingly frustrated with the constant discomfort. A trip to the grocery store hurts my knees so bad I can barely walk for the rest of the day. Thank you in advance.
Whether pressured into it by insurance companies, or simply wanting to see if the least potent drug works, it's up to the patient to demand a different drug when there has been no improvement after a couple months. When I was diagnosed 30 years ago, we didn't have biologics. I made it clear to my then-rheumatologist that I needed to be on the best drug for the job, as I was self-supporting and couldn't afford the luxury of down time. Luckily I was heard. I was put on Methotrexate. It began to help and over a month, as I recall, I was greatly improved. I never quite reached the point of not being in pain or not having inflammation though, in spite of upped doses over the years.
Because biologics weren't available, I underwent many steroid injections in the joints, which helped tremendously, in spite of the impact on my adrenal glands. But those injections were short term and had to be repeated over and over again.
Eventually I went on Humira, and for me it was a game changer.
Regarding Humira, which I've been on for est. 15 years: within two months I saw significant improvement. It was overwhelming. Granted, I didn't get back my earlier healthy joints, but at least I could move about without pain.
Just know that if Humira doesn't work for you, try another biologic.
Be vocal. Don't settle.thank you!
, I think Drea pretty much said it all. I don't have personal experience with this particular issue, so I will let those that do (like you and Drea) do the talking here.
That said, I do hope you find a treatment that works well for you and brings you some lasting relief from the pain!
Best, Erin, RheumatoidArthritis.net Team Member.thank you!
Hi
. As said, biologics, like other RA drugs, can be trial and error in finding the right one, but they have been a game changer for many. Our contributor Mariah wrote here about the difference biologics made in her life: https://rheumatoidarthritis.net/living/thank-you-biologics. Of course, every case is different, but hoping you see good results soon. Please feel free to keep us posted on how you are doing. Best, Richard (RheumatoidArthritis.net Team) Thank you for the information! The positive comments I have received regarding medications have given me hope for a better future!
