Managing pain
I've had RA since I was 22, am 34 now. I had 11 years on enbrel before it stopped working. Since last year I have had very swollen joints, started yuflyma in Nov 2025 and since then I have had little improvement. I wake up constantly in the night from pain, my knees are very swollen, I struggle to walk without feel unbalanced and painkillers aren't really helping. Since Nov I've been on and off of steriods, normally for a month at a time, which eases symptoms, but within weeks I'm back to where I was before. I've had steriod injections into each knee 3 months ago, and it helped for about 6 weeks. I take paracetamol and ibuprofen, along with ice and rest, but find it does little to help pain. Does anyone have any suggestions for pain management other than what I am trying?
Hi
. While it can take a while for a new treatment to fully take effect, nine months is more than enough time - it really sounds like the new treatment may not be the one for you. Our contributor Kelly Mack (full disclosure - I'm her husband) wrote this article on how to know when to change medications: https://rheumatoidarthritis.net/living/when-to-change-medications and Andrew wrote this article specifically about biologics: https://rheumatoidarthritis.net/living/switching-ra-medicines-dont-wait-long-try-many. Has your rheumatologist had anything to say about potentially making a change?
Concerning pain, are you seeing a pain management specialist? This article from our editorial team discusses this topic: https://rheumatoidarthritis.net/living/switching-ra-medicines-dont-wait-long-try-many. In addition, Angela wrote here about what she has tried: https://rheumatoidarthritis.net/living/do-pain-clinics-really-help. I hope this information is helpful and that others chime in with their thoughts. Also hoping you can get some relief soon. Best, Richard (Team Member)Heya, so consultant is saying to bare with it for now, and no referral to pain clinic as they said paracetamol and ibuprofen should be sufficient. Seeing them again next week so will ask again
, seriously? That's what you were told? I mean, I am not surprised, but I am disappointed. Too many people living with RA are told to just "live with it" and I find that ridiculous! I do hope the appointment next week is more productive.
Best, Erin, Team Member.
They said I had to try the new medicine for 6 months, before switching as it could take thst long to work. However my previous biologic felt like a miracle, within 2 months I had no pain, and full movement, however I do think this time because it's over 6 months now and I have tried several courses of steriods that they will change meds. I appreciate all the articles and advice 😀
Hi
. Glad to hear you have an upcoming appointment. Besides the fact that you are now well over six months on the new treatment, you know what it feels like for a med to work and your RA to be under control - don't hesitate to stress this fact and that this isn't it. Really hoping you can get some relief soon. Please feel free to keep us posted and to ask questions. Best, Richard (Team Member) , like Richard already wrote, I am glad you have that appointment and it sounds like you know how to advocate for yourself. Good luck and I hope the appointment goes well!
Best, Erin, Team Member.
