What are some treatment options for rheumatoid arthritis?

Answer 1

Decades ago, if a person were diagnosed with rheumatoid Arthritis, the rheumatologist would tell that person that he or she would have a poor prognosis and would likely be disabled in in the future from the ravages of rheumatoid arthritis. Now, with modern medicine and the latest in research developments now making its breakthroughs tangible, having rheumatoid arthritis no longer means being crippled as one gets older. Medicines used for other purposes have now found usage in rheumatoid arthritis due to better understanding of the disease. New medications have also revolutionized the outlook of rheumatoid arthritis.

The conservative treatments are always suggested first, such as using over the counter pain medications (NSAIDs, Tylenol) and heat/ice, but more physicians are beginning to use medications called DMARDs (disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs) earlier in the course of rheumatoid arthritis. The oral forms of these drugs range in type and indication, but the most common ones used are methotrexate, Plaquenil, leflunomide, sulfasalazine, and ciclosporine. Clinical studies have indicated that earlier, more aggressive usage of these medications can not only show earlier benefit, but also slow or even halt progression of rheumatoid completely.

Corticosteroids are still used for rheumatoid flares, but most treatments are kept as short as possible because of their side effects. Patients started on oral steroids take a strong dose of steroids and gradually taper the dose until they are weaned off. For rheumatoid that has not been controlled with DMARDs on a regular basis, the new biologic agents have shown lots of promise in managing rheumatoid arthritis. These new agents work by blocking one of the biochemicals in the body that trigger inflammation. This halts an inflammatory cascade that causes a marked reduction in inflammation, and as a result decreases or even halts the immune system's attack on joints affected by rheumatoid arthritis. Such medications include etanercept, infliximab, and adalimumab. These medications have revolutionized the treatment and management of rheumatoid arthritis, but have its disadvantages as well. For one, it can only be taken as an injectible form because the stomach's acid degrades this product before it reaches the body. Another downside is the increased risk for infections.

Though there is no cure for rheumatoid arthritis, there are many options available for managing the disease. However, with the current research in understanding this disease process, there is hope a better treatment or even a cure will be found.

Answer 2

A knee brace might help if you are looking for nonsurgical help. Physical therapy and calcium supplements are other possibilities.

Answer 3

Getting regular exercise strengthens joint-supporting structures and improves flexibility. A physical therapist can suggest appropriate movements that provide a full range of motion.