I’m ineligible for the biologics because I had Hep-C (until 2007) I went thru the interferon treatment, the MOST SICK I have ever been. It completely rid my body of any viral traces. My Rumatoid factor is below normal, due to diet and exercise I suspect. The only way I can control the severe pain- keep my stress level down, eat the correct diet (Cherries, berries-no high cholesterol or fatty foods, I eat a tremendous amount of Elk and Venison, it has the best combination of complex enzymes and proteins that form a matrix of the most suggested type of protein that are most beneficial for RA and other types of autoimmune diseases .) The only way I can relieve my pain is by a regiment of pain management medication (30 mg Oxycodone every 6 hours, Norco 10/325 3X’s a day) I’ve been on this regiment for 14 years, I also utilize my Whirlpool tub, 3X’s a week. When my stress level starts to climb-so does my flare ups, weather changes are horrible (when I’m outside in -25 degrees, my pain is almost gone) wet cold is terrible. The only Osteoarthritis I had was in the hip I just had replaced. I believe the interferon is what triggered my RA. The surgery during a flare up, the femur was very dense and he had to chisel it very hard, he didn’t use any adhesive so once healed, it will be stronger- but it will hurt much more and take longer. My trip home was a mistake, I think that’s when the femur nerve block wore off and the 2 hrs in 26 degree temps using the walker for the first time- all those combined, made for a NASTY trauma experience. I’ll use what’s been helpful to get me thru this to help others. Thanks to ALL of Ya’ll for your sincere support and encouragement- I couldn’t have come this far without your Kindness and Love- Light, & Hope from Gillette Wyoming

Daniel, are you ineligible because of health or finances? I only ask because I had to get help from the pharmaceutical company on this last biologic.

My hubby is sero-negative. His CCP, when we started this journey, was @270 or 290. RA factor was ZERO. Drs. saw all of the inflammation and stiffness as well as a history of psoriasis. He gets the Vectra test as well as complete blood work every THREE months.

Hi Daniel,
First, I am so sorry you are going through this. It seems you are doing the right things to help.
I have OA and RA, and my daughter has Fibromyalgia. What we have experienced is the RA and OA effect muscles and joints. Fibromyalgia attacked the nerves more, so it is very painful. Our team of doctors work together to keep us as normal as possible. (We have tried to tell them, we have never been "normal"). Anyway my daughter is treated with a muscle relaxer and uses Arnicare gel or Dragon's Numbing Gel.
I am on XeljanzXR and have been in remission 8 years. However I have just had the worst flare I have ever had. Treatment was a Medrol pack for 6 days, which helped but blood pressure is to high, just added 3rd bp med today. I apply Arnicare gel to the sore muscles as it penatrates and relaxes muscles as well as healing them. Second, Hydration, Hydration, Hydration and easy excercise help as well.
I hope this helps.

My inflammatory markers are usually normal, but I have visible RA in my hands and symptoms. I am on an infusion every two months. Maybe get a second opinion.