I have gone off all meds and am trying to do it naturally. The side effects from the meds were worse than the disease itself. I therefore am going natural and doing hot tubs, swimming, steam rooms, arthritis society exercises and stretching and physio and seeing an occupational therapist. I am eating root vegetables and am in a sugar and flour free eating plan. I am trying to eat less flammatory foods. When I am in pain I use my heating pad, cold compresses, Epsom salt bath and in extreme case I use extra strength Tylenol arthritis.
Good luck and God bless

Kimberly Urysz-Valade

My rheumatologist started me on 400mg hydroxychloroquine daily. After administering the VECTRA-DS, we identified astronomical levels of the IL-6 cytokine. My CRP was 89 ! My SED rate was 66 ! My doctor was able to make the case to my insurance company to bypass the entry biologics and start Actemra. It really changed my life for the better within a few months of therapy. Today, 10 years later, I still take the Actemra and Plaquenil. My PCP will prescribe a short term steroid regimen for flares. Other than elevated hepatic numbers, I have not noticed many side effects.

Well I guess I am in the minority. I think it makes perfect sense to start with the less invasive -and likely the cheapest- course of treatment. We don't know what will work until we try it. If you paid totally out of pocket yourself would you start with the most expensive? If you paid for a stranger, you wouldn't start with the highest price. I am currently on Humira. I wouldn't start there, because of cost but, mostly because of it killing part of your immune system.
I don't think total relief is possible. We all have varying symptoms and different reactions to treatment. If your symptoms are cut in half, take the win. That doesn't mean give up, or stop trying. Too much in our society it's all about first place. Second isn't so bad. Strive for better while being happy where you are.
I know how frustrating it is while searching for the right combination.
For those who use or try alternative methods I urge you to keep your Dr informed of this. Not all supplements are good for all of us. Or will work on some of us. Or go with some of your meds.
I have MS, RA, ulcerative colitis, and am treated for blood clots. I don't do anything without consulting my Dr. I have been told to limit my B12, Iron vitemins. and limit turmeric among others.
Good luck! God Bless!

Good morning Nancy! We are guinea pigs, just being fed harsh and toxic poisons! I.have always said and will continue to say if I could afford the cost of a naturopath, that I would be right there in a flash!!
We are Doomed!!!!!
Thank you again my friend for being such a caring and loving and sharing this very important message my friend!!

The leg ulcers have healed . The carers wash and put moisturiser on twice a day , which has helped immensely 😀