How can I manage my RA symptoms, like pain and stiffness?

Many in our community find warmth to be soothing for their pain and stiffness. Using a heated blanket or a hot shower or bath can bring relief. Others here prefer cold to relieve pain, but over time, cold can cause more stiffness. You may need to speak with your doctor about adjusting your medications. Whenever possible, get the rest you need.

Managing symptoms, of course, is a major concern across the RA community. You might be interested in this article from our editorial team on overall RA symptoms, with links to more information on specific ones: https://rheumatoidarthritis.net/symptoms.

Managing RA symptoms is a popular topic here at RheumatoidArthritis.net ! Many of our members have found working in partnership with their physician to find the right medication for them has been helpful to managing their symptoms. Other members are sometimes able to manage some symptoms with exercise and other alternative treatments. Many find a combination of medication and complementary treatments to be a good balance. I really find this information from our editorial team to be very helpful -- https://rheumatoidarthritis.net/treatment. If you scroll over the topics in blue on the left hand side of the page, you can click on them and be taken to specific information on that topic (like 'pain relievers', for example).

I have a Fitbit that buzzes at 10 of if I haven't taken 250 steps that hour. I find that moving just a little bit every hour really helps keep stiffness at bay and reduces pain too. If you aren't a Fitbit user, you could set your phone to remind you every hour!