Query about hand and feet changes with RA

marion1952
marion1952 Member Posts: 963
edited 20. Apr 2010, 18:19 in Living with Arthritis archive
Hi

Sorry if this is a silly question, but do the DMARDs (eg methotrex and sulphasalzz and anti-tnfs) stop the hand and toe joints becoming deformed, or do they just help with the inflammation?

The reason I ask is that I was put on mtx as soon as I was disagnosed 2 years ago, but my knuckles are a bit bigger than they were pre-diagnosis and my big toes are a bit mis-shapen ... I'm wondering if they will continue to change, even on the drug(s)?

I used to do the hand exercises (given me by the OT) religiously, but haven't done them now for about 6 months.. I always wear either the daytime splints or the 'anti-swelling' gloves during the day, and in a flare-up I wear the overnight splnts..


Many thanks

Marion

Comments

  • lindalegs
    lindalegs Member Posts: 5,397
    edited 30. Nov -1, 00:00
    Hi Marion,

    My understanding is that Dmards help to slow down the progression of the disease but you may still get some joint deformities but not to the degree you probably would have done.

    I would suggest you go back to doing the exercises because this helps disperse the fluid on the joints and will keep maximum mobility. It's the fluid that is corrosive and does the damage. The exercises also keep the muscles strong which in turn helps support the joints.

    Hope this helps.

    Luv Legs :)
    Love, Legs x
    'Make a life out of what you have, not what you're missing'
  • marion1952
    marion1952 Member Posts: 963
    edited 30. Nov -1, 00:00
    Thanks Legs - that's helpful... I will re-start the exercises..

    best wishes

    marion
  • lindalegs
    lindalegs Member Posts: 5,397
    edited 30. Nov -1, 00:00
    Glad to hear it ......I shall be looking over your shoulder to make sure you do :wink:

    XX
    Love, Legs x
    'Make a life out of what you have, not what you're missing'
  • abfab1963
    abfab1963 Member Posts: 41
    edited 30. Nov -1, 00:00
    Despite being on 20mg Mtx, I have had changes in the last month on my wrists, knuckles and finger joints.

    OT have given me wrist / hand splints to wear at night and have ordered wrist splints for day. The night splints look bloody awful but DO help as I have a lot less pain over night and in the morning.....thank GOD! :-)

    I too, go to toning tables (do a bit of cardio too) and find this is really helping my joints. I dont feel as stiff as I did and actually enjoy it.

    Ask your GP about your local healthwise programme (12 weeks free use of local leisure centre).....it may be offered in your area.

    Good luck

    Abfab
    x
  • marion1952
    marion1952 Member Posts: 963
    edited 30. Nov -1, 00:00
    Thanks Delboy and Abfab .. very useful tips ..

    Best wishes

    Marion
  • Starburst
    Starburst Member Posts: 2,546
    edited 30. Nov -1, 00:00
    I was under the impression that the inflammation is what causes damage and changes to the joints, so the more under control your disease is, the less likely there is for bad damage. Although, there is no miracle cure, hopefully they can slow down the progression.

    Hope this helps!
  • dorcas
    dorcas Member Posts: 3,516
    edited 30. Nov -1, 00:00
    Hi Marion,
    I agree with what everyone has said. :D

    DMARDS, Anti tnfs etc are not guaranteed to stop arther but hopefully slow down the disease process and therefore limit the inflammation which leads to joint damage.

    Does mean though that we still can get joint damage and deformities but at least it takes a whole lot longer to get there!

    some peeps respond really well and get relief from arther for a long time , for others we just have to chase the newest drugs to keep ahead of, or at least keep pace with, arther.

    It's always worth speaking to docs and rheummys so that we get reviewed and have the best possible drugs or combination of drugs. Steroid injections are also part of the arsenal of weapons against increasing inflammation/ flares......well worth considering if offered.

    physio, exercise, heat and cold treatments and the balance of rest/ work are also part of the regimen!
    Iris x
  • marion1952
    marion1952 Member Posts: 963
    edited 30. Nov -1, 00:00
    Thanks Princess and Iris... I'vew still got a lot to learn about RA and wish I had found this forum when I was first diagnosed 2 years ago..

    Marion x