Is Your Rheumatoid Arthritis Under Control?

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune disorder where your immune system attacks your own tissues. RA can cause painful swelling and joint deformities. It differs from osteoarthritis, which is caused by daily wear and tear. Unlike osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis can damage other parts of the body, including the skin, eyes, lungs and heart.

While there are many medications to relive RA symptoms, some people continue to experience pain and other symptoms. This can be a sign your rheumatoid arthritis is not under control, or it can show you have lasting damage. Medici Medical Arts can help relieve your symptoms so you can take back control of your condition.

How Do I Know if My Current Treatment is Enough?

The primary goal of rheumatoid arthritis treatment is stopping the inflammation that causes long-term damage. In addition to medication, it is important to have a complete program of care, including addressing strength, mobility and physical activity.

Here are some signs you may need additional support with your treatment plan:

1. Your RA symptoms keep returning. If you had your rheumatoid arthritis under control, but your symptoms come back, it could mean it is time for a change. Pay special attention to subtle signs of achiness, minor swelling, unexplained stiffness and fatigue.
2. You have different RA symptoms than before. Signs can include pain or swelling in different joints, or problems with your eyes, skin or lungs.
3. You have mobility or strength issues. If RA has already limited your strength or movement, you may benefit from physiotherapy.

You have chronic pain. You can suffer from RA pain with or without obvious swelling or joint damage. A pain management specialist can address specific treatments for pain that is not responding to traditional RA medications.

Unfortunately, sometimes rheumatoid arthritis is not diagnosed until damage has occurred. This can cause chronic pain, mobility problems and unstable joints. Once damage is visible, it is important to develop a plan of care that provides relief from the symptoms and brings you to your optimum level of health.

There Are More Treatment Options for Rheumatoid Arthritis

If you are taking prescribed medication and still suffer from rheumatoid arthritis pain, stiffness or other damage, Medici Medical Arts can help. As specialists in pain management and injury rehabilitation, each treatment is customized to your health needs, goals and lifestyle.

If you are ready to take control of your rheumatoid arthritis and improve your quality of life, contact Medici Medical Arts today.