I have received about 6 shots over the years. It's a little sore right after you get the shot but by the next day the pain is pretty well gone. Takes a few days for the swelling to go down. But I do recommend them.

Hi @A myRAteam Member

I've had quite a few of them in my right hand knuckles. Unless technology has changed in the past 25 years (when I last got those injections), it's kind of a pressure syringe that pushes the substance subdermally. It's actually pretty painful, but quick.
As for if it was helpful... Well steroids, like steroids, give you temporary relief, but that's all. I was left with some substantial damage to my fingers.
I'd say, give it a try to get a sense of the experience and if it's helpful for you. You'll know much better after you try :).

BTW, I've written a blog relating to my finger damage and RA. If you want to check it out, read here:

https://www.reclaimlabs.com/blogs/news/arthriti...

Good luck!
Ron

Mentioned Users

A myRAtea...

@A myRAteam Member. I think it took longer than 6 months for the Actemra to finally control the swelling in my hands but it finally did. I think the pain in my knuckles is from the damage already done. I had both my knees & my right hip replaced already and think my other hip is starting to go. Sigh. I’m afraid to stay on Pred even though it would probably help. My feet hurt all the time but that’s mostly from Neuropathy. I’m sorry about your hands and wrists. Hopefully, the Actemra doesn’t allow any further damage for us. Thanks for letting me know about the shots in your wrists.

Mentioned Users

A myRAtea...

I've had steroid injections in my wrists, not too bad. But never really controlled the swelling well. I too am on Actemra. Infusions for 6 months now on weekly injections. It controls swelling in my knees,feet & ankles but not my wrists or hands. My hands & wrists are pretty wrecked though. I take 5mg prednisone daily to help control swelling. I do have flares in my hands, but higher dose prednisone taper usually takes care of it. Good luck.