Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) - Introduce yourself and meet others

Let's talk about living with rheumatoid arthritis.
As moderator of the Autoimmune Diseases group, I noticed that several people were talking about RA, but those conversations were scattered throughout the community. I thought I would start this discussion to bring us all together in one place.

Let’s grab a cup of tea, or beverage of choice, and let's chat. Why not start by introducing yourself?

Interested in more discussions like this? Go to the Autoimmune Diseases Support Group.

Moderator’s note:
From the Cleveland Clinic Q&A

Can Copper or Magnetic Bracelets Ease Your Arthritis?
“Magnets were long believed to have healing power, and the discovery of copper in the blood fueled a belief that rheumatism stems from a copper deficiency.

However, two British studies — involving 45 osteoarthritis patients and, later, 346 rheumatoid arthritis patients — found that magnetic wrist strips and copper bracelets worked no better than dummy devices (placebos).

Although the researchers found that copper bracelets and magnetic wrist strips had no meaningful effect on joint pain, swelling or the progression of arthritis, the devices are inexpensive and have no major side effects.

That said, rheumatoid arthritis responds better to earlier treatment, so don’t wait too long to see a doctor if you happen to develop symptoms.”

Read more https://health.clevelandclinic.org/can-copper-or-magnetic-bracelets-ease-your-arthritis/

REPLY
@becsbuddy

@gillysmom You have certainly had a difficult time with multiple chronic diseases! And now even more so, what with being bedridden. Are you able to be up and about at all? Do you have someone caring for you?
What is most bothering you right now?

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I can feed myself with prepared foods, which means navigating a flight of stairs. I have to hold on because I am still weak from the aftereffects of vertigo. My most pressing issue was transferring my Hizentra gamma globulin infusions from home in Oregon to son's home in VA. That meant finding a new immunologist and getting it all processed and activated. I had products for a couple of months to tide me over, and just managed to activate all as my stuff was running out. With all the problems, I just tackle one at a time. If the Hizentra didn't work out, I would die, so that is the priority. I;m still working out the small stuff with that. Next two tasks are finding a cardiologist and rheumatologist. Son has driven me to appointments with new immunologist, but so far only getting the stuff going and no real progress. My sickness and weakness makes going forward difficult and slow. Son works hard as home as CFO for small company, so I ask as little of him as possible. .Before the Covid vax, I was independent and on an organic diet and seeking solutions for many physical problems, but medical support in my home town was less than third world poor. Was virtually on my own for years.

REPLY
@colleenyoung

Moderator’s note:
From the Cleveland Clinic Q&A

Can Copper or Magnetic Bracelets Ease Your Arthritis?
“Magnets were long believed to have healing power, and the discovery of copper in the blood fueled a belief that rheumatism stems from a copper deficiency.

However, two British studies — involving 45 osteoarthritis patients and, later, 346 rheumatoid arthritis patients — found that magnetic wrist strips and copper bracelets worked no better than dummy devices (placebos).

Although the researchers found that copper bracelets and magnetic wrist strips had no meaningful effect on joint pain, swelling or the progression of arthritis, the devices are inexpensive and have no major side effects.

That said, rheumatoid arthritis responds better to earlier treatment, so don’t wait too long to see a doctor if you happen to develop symptoms.”

Read more https://health.clevelandclinic.org/can-copper-or-magnetic-bracelets-ease-your-arthritis/

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Not all magnetic therapy is created is effective and some are scams. There are numerous crieteria that have to be met to make the healin work.. I am a novice in this therapy, but I already know that choosing a company that is ethical, that makes effective magnets, and knows whee and how to place them to induce ealing effects is essential to any healing that may happen. If you start reading about clients stories of such a company, which covers a range of diseases, you will know that magnets heal. US is tied to big pharma, and a magnet research that mixes with copper braacelets doesn't have fundamentals that make any sense.

REPLY
@jilliemo12345

Hi, I do have a comments about using magnets. 10 yrs. ago I was suffering from terrible neck pain, diagnosed with “arthritis “ pinched nerves needing to have cervical surgery.. I refused surgery and continued to suffer used all kinds of alternatives including Chinese meds.
We attended a street fair where I tried on a strong magnet bracelet after wearing it for 15 minutes my pain started to decrease taking off the bracelet the pain returned.
I continue to wear that bracelet and other magnet jewelry.
5 yrs. ago I was diagnosed with RA on meds which are slowing down the progress, but I do rely on the magnets for days with more pain.
I do believe that they are helpful. Do talk with someone who uses them in their practice.
Best wishes to you, jill

Editor's Note:
https://health.clevelandclinic.org/can-copper-or-magnetic-bracelets-ease-your-arthritis/

Research has shown that there is little to no evidence that magnetic bracelets have any future in pain management.

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I must affirm that some magnets are not snake oil. and may actually work when used correctly. I have a package coming with several different kinds of magnets and books describing their proper placement. The effective use of magnets requires knowledge and the right product. Will add more if and when I think it might be helpful.

REPLY
@gillysmom

I can feed myself with prepared foods, which means navigating a flight of stairs. I have to hold on because I am still weak from the aftereffects of vertigo. My most pressing issue was transferring my Hizentra gamma globulin infusions from home in Oregon to son's home in VA. That meant finding a new immunologist and getting it all processed and activated. I had products for a couple of months to tide me over, and just managed to activate all as my stuff was running out. With all the problems, I just tackle one at a time. If the Hizentra didn't work out, I would die, so that is the priority. I;m still working out the small stuff with that. Next two tasks are finding a cardiologist and rheumatologist. Son has driven me to appointments with new immunologist, but so far only getting the stuff going and no real progress. My sickness and weakness makes going forward difficult and slow. Son works hard as home as CFO for small company, so I ask as little of him as possible. .Before the Covid vax, I was independent and on an organic diet and seeking solutions for many physical problems, but medical support in my home town was less than third world poor. Was virtually on my own for years.

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@gillysmom I’m so glad you’re able to be with your son. I hope you’re near one of the big hospitals, like the University of Virginia. Or, if you’re near Washington DC, there are also great hospitals. You should be able to get some referrals to cardiologists and rheumatologists. I wish you lots of good luck and please stay in touch with me!

REPLY
@jilliemo12345

Hi, I do have a comments about using magnets. 10 yrs. ago I was suffering from terrible neck pain, diagnosed with “arthritis “ pinched nerves needing to have cervical surgery.. I refused surgery and continued to suffer used all kinds of alternatives including Chinese meds.
We attended a street fair where I tried on a strong magnet bracelet after wearing it for 15 minutes my pain started to decrease taking off the bracelet the pain returned.
I continue to wear that bracelet and other magnet jewelry.
5 yrs. ago I was diagnosed with RA on meds which are slowing down the progress, but I do rely on the magnets for days with more pain.
I do believe that they are helpful. Do talk with someone who uses them in their practice.
Best wishes to you, jill

Editor's Note:
https://health.clevelandclinic.org/can-copper-or-magnetic-bracelets-ease-your-arthritis/

Research has shown that there is little to no evidence that magnetic bracelets have any future in pain management.

Jump to this post

The research doesn’t support my subjective results and doesn’t offer any explanation for them either. For me they work and for others I’ve gifted them to, so I will continue to use them and share my experiences with others.
When medicine fails seeking alternative help can bring relief.
Our minds, faith and belief are powerful tools.

REPLY

Hi, my name is Ashley. I have recently been tentatively diagnosed with early RA and my doctor has prescribed me methotrexate. I'm really scared to take this drug or really any DMARD because of the side effects. Luckily, they have caught it early and I don't have any joint damage yet. Just pain and inflammation in several joints, mostly small ones in my body. I am thinking of what I can do naturally to try and help before taking the drugs or if I should just start taking them because it could help my prognosis. Has anyone else found that diet and exercise has made it possible for them to avoid the drugs? I am willing to try anything to avoid having to go on serious medication.

REPLY
@apacemn1

Hi, my name is Ashley. I have recently been tentatively diagnosed with early RA and my doctor has prescribed me methotrexate. I'm really scared to take this drug or really any DMARD because of the side effects. Luckily, they have caught it early and I don't have any joint damage yet. Just pain and inflammation in several joints, mostly small ones in my body. I am thinking of what I can do naturally to try and help before taking the drugs or if I should just start taking them because it could help my prognosis. Has anyone else found that diet and exercise has made it possible for them to avoid the drugs? I am willing to try anything to avoid having to go on serious medication.

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Welcome Ashley @apacemn1, I think it's really great to be looking for options and learning what will help you manage your RA .
I think diet and exercise both play a major part in most autoimmune condtions. Here's some tips you might find helpful if you have not already seen them --- Your Guide to Living Well With Rheumatoid Arthritis: https://www.verywellhealth.com/rheumatoid-arthritis-living-well-5076921

There is another discussion you might find helpful.
-- Glucosamine or other supplements for RA: https://connect.mayoclinic.org/discussion/glucosamine-or-other-supplements-for-ra/

Did your doctor offer any suggestions for things you can do to help manage RA?

REPLY

Hi, I'm Susan. I was diagnosed with RA 2 years ago and put on a med/sm dose of methotrexate. I woke up one morning following a serious surgery unable to move with all my joints flaming. Sudden onset RA triggered by body trauma while healing. Before this I had no symptoms. I exercise several times a week, walk regularly, went on WW to lose 50 lbs (20 lbs to go), watch my diet, paying special attention to sugar and fat. Currently I'm symptom free. I do notice when I don't follow these guidelines I experience mild symptoms that I can control by taking really good care of myself again. It's hard to stay away from alcohol, sugar, and fat but my body is quick to remind me this is my new normal if I want to feel good and move without pain. The article John suggested above gave me some good talking points for my next doctor appt. Thank you!

REPLY
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