Dear Rheumatoid Arthritis Community

By CommunityMember488b64

1 min read

I want to share that I was diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis three years ago. Although I have been managing my symptoms, I am now seeking advice from the community on what to do next.

RA management strategies

I know that everyone's experience with rheumatoid arthritis is different, and I would love to hear about the strategies and treatments that have helped others manage their symptoms. What lifestyle changes or medications have worked well for you? Have you tried any alternative therapies or complementary treatments that you would recommend?

Furthermore, I am curious about the types of support that are available for those living with rheumatoid arthritis. Are there any local support groups or online communities that you recommend for sharing experiences and finding resources?

Any suggestions or insights would be greatly appreciated as I navigate this journey with rheumatoid arthritis. Thank you for your time and support.

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RHall Community Admin
Hi <inline-mention username="CommunityMember488b64" user-id="7002508"/> - welcome to our RA community. The questions you asked about resources and where to find support can be found here! We have plenty of experiences from people with RA that can be found in our forums (<a href='https://rheumatoidarthritis.net/forums' target='_blank'>https://rheumatoidarthritis.net/forums</a>), we have wide-ranging perspectives from our RA Health Leaders (<a href='https://rheumatoidarthritis.net/community/experts' target='_blank'>https://rheumatoidarthritis.net/community/experts</a>), and there individual stories (like this one) that can be found here (<a href='https://rheumatoidarthritis.net/stories' target='_blank'>https://rheumatoidarthritis.net/stories</a>). If there is something specific you're looking for, please let us know. Welcome! - Reggie, team member
Jo Johnson Moderator & Contributor
<inline-mention username="markbutler" user-id="4594807"/> My Rheum gave me a referral to Integrative Health department at a local hospital system. There I had an evaluation by an NP who ordered massage, acupuncture and a consult with an MD with experience with supplements. If I go through the Integrative Health program the services are covered by my insurance, so check with yours. Massage - I always look for someone with experience in chronic pain. At my first appointment I stress I need a very gentle massage to avoid that next day bad flu feeling. When I get home I kick back and have a single beer. In my mind, it is 12oz of fluid to help flush my system and helps the relaxation settle in. That’s my story… Acupuncture - I had a difficult time finding a practitioner I trusted, so my doctor’s referral was great! Every other month or so I go for 4 weekly sessions. I have found it helpful for pain and fatigue. In fact, yesterday I woke up feeling Really Crummy. I already had a session scheduled and I left feeling so much better! She tells me she can also help with my Adrenals while I am weaning down steroids. I’m willing to let her try! Supplements - I haven’t gone there yet. I am very science based and have had trouble finding what I am comfortable with. Because I am on long term steroids I do take calcium and Vit D daily. Life Style - The hardest lesson for me has been pacing! I now force myself to pad trips and big family events with 2-3 recovery days. I’m still working on going slower during those events tho! I Hope for you to find the best extra supports you need, Jo Johnson, Moderator

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RA management strategies

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