@WilliamDBrewer Never settle accept you will have some pain and there will be times it is going to be bad even though your lab tests for RA are low now, you are doing better and that is great. For me I need to keep setting new goals for my New Normal, It does not go away it just changes. I fight to keep my strength despite I feel like I am not fighting strong enough the pain stops me. I had to see a psychologist because I had a very difficult time with what was taking place with my body stopping me from what I normally did. I learned to accept it day by day. It is much easier now that I do not work however I am a new medication and have high hopes it helps and I can return to work some day. Never Waste 1 Minute of Life.

Hi @WilliamDBrewer
By 'damage already done' I wonder if your rhumey refers to damage done before medication began or the damage done while taking medication that for the most part treats the symptoms of ra without addressing the causes which are officially considered to be unknown.
Were you warned of the consequences of using damaged joints in the past?
Is there any hope of repairing damaged joints in a satisfactory way or is @ replacement the only solution?
I would like to think damaged joints could be repaired naturally. I have heard claims that long term fasting (twenty to forty day water fasts) can work miracles.
When it comes to ra, the sufferers are on the losing side from the start. The only real winners are our providers. At most we can go from being warriors to being survivors which can be quite a consolation considering what we've been through.
Since your rheumatologist won't have explained the most likely causes of your ra or what could help keep it in remission without causing further side effects, I suggest you watch Clints interviews with the experts to see what they have to say.
Hope you have a good day, William.

Unfortunately, it sounds like you've hit a plateau. The joint damage can't be reversed unless you have joint replacements. Sounds like you've done really well and fortunately are under control and not getting worse. While it is sad that we will never be what we once were, we do need to consider how far we've come since being diagnosed.
Hugs.

WilliamDBrewer I sincerely hope it doesn’t return. Even though there is no cure for RA I believe everyone of us work toward the day we find what truly helps us with the daily pain. I have come to a place where, I still have pain, but know how to pace myself so it doesn’t become severe. I’m on better treatment and I’m not suffering every day. The weather has gotten warmer which helps me. I too have damage from years of not finding the right treatment. Good luck on staying pain free or better at least.

I think any day mobile is a win ! Had too many days being immobile. It's a constant struggle . But I think all of us are winners everyday we treat our deasease . I take the good days and feel blessed !