Hi there,

I have had negative RA factor arthritis for over 30 years. My diagnosis is psoriatic arthritis based on my symptoms and because I had psoriasis at age 11. Methotrexate and hydrochloroquin (also known as plaquenil) has helped me the most. Last few years they have also diagnosed me with osteoarthritis. So the rheumatoid/psoriatic arthritis is an autoimmune disease and the osteo is a wear and tear of the joints disease. I am also off NSAIDS as it gives me gastritis despite taking something to protect my stomach. I do well with long acting tramadol, which is called tridura for painl. I have tried different biologics but none have helped or the side effects are not tolerated well. One, I had an allergic reaction that landed me in ER.
Unfortunately autoimmune diseases have some common elements but each individual can respond differently to treatments. There are other drugs out there like lefludamide and sulfazalazine but I did not tolerate them either.
My worst pain is when winter turns to summer and summer turns to winter. In Canada this happens quickly and my immune system just doesn't like that. Humidity is also not good for me.

I am surprised that a doctor would ignore your symptoms just because you had a negative RA factor. I hope you are seeing a rheumatologist. I see mine every 6 months and she is wonderful. Get someone that works with you and is a good listener. I had better luck at a teaching hospital.
My hands can be useless at times and so can my lower back and hips. The best thing for me is to keep moving. I enjoy going to group exercise. Even though I may be the youngest in the class, I can increase the ankle weights and the dumb bells. You may have to take more breaks but don't stop moving; at least for me that works.
Wishing you well,