Hi have just been diagnosed with Inlammatory RA. Am waiting for blood results to see what meds I need. At the moment am on steroids and co-codamol. Had a booster injection of steroids to keep me going I suppose till results come back. Have severe pain in wrists and hands so have to pick the right time to type with one finger! Also pain in knees, shoulders, soles of feet - you name it's there. I would appreciate any advice from people on here - feel a bit lost at the moment. Thanks. Carol
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I am very sorry to hear about your diagnosis of Rheumatoid Arthritis and the pain you are experiencing. I see you have already seen a rheumatologist and are waiting to start medication. No need to feel alone or lost any more you have found this forum now
I wonder whether you have read this:
https://www.arthritisresearchuk.org/arthritis-information/inflammatory-arthritis-pathway.aspx
You are already part of the way along the pathway, but it can be useful to get yourself as informed as possible.
We have a great community here, who have lots of experience of arthritis I know they will make you very welcome and help in any way they can.
I look forward to seeing you posting in future.
Best wishes,
Ellen.
I was first given sulphasalazine, then that was boosted with tablet methotrexate. Over the years other meds have been tried and stopped, my current combination is working well, I know that because my bloods are lovely. I have a lifetime of meds and doctors so none of this was particularly startling but, if you are coming at this from a healthy background, it must seem very daunting and confusing. Feel free to ask any questions you may have, none are too small or silly for us: we all get it because we've got it. DD
Its such a shock when first diagnosed..but it will do you good to talk about things..and we are all good at that..so stick with us..
Barbara
I, too, started with RA in my fingers, many many years ago and it's true that one doesn't realise quite how much we use joints until they start protesting. I hope you'll soon be on some meds that work well for you. I'm good on a combination of methotrexate and hydroxychloroquine.
You ask if a splint would help. I'm not familiar with thumb splints. I've had wrist splints and knee splints and also ankle and neck supports. The key is not to overuse such aids as, by immobilising the joint, the encourage the muscles to nod off
The link about the Pathway is a very good one so I hope you find it helpful.
Things do get better - really
How are things today? It sounds as if the steroids and cocos aren't helping much.