@becsbuddy Hello Becky. You mention an auto-immune disease that began at age 70. Is it possible to identify what it is? It seems that you have something but it is permanent. Otherwise, some treatment would have stopped it. The whole category of "auto-immune" seems to be very mysterious and intractable. Even cancer, which can be fatal, has treatments that create remission (temporary cessation) or even cure. Any info? Thanks for your ideas.

Coping with my RA was really hard. I had a hard time realizing that I wouldn't always be up and ready to go. It has taken time to accept this. With my infusion was working, I was a happier person without terrible pain. I also had to learn that it takes about an hour in the mornings to get moving. I am usually stiff.
My biggest tip is listen to your body...I do have fatigue problems with my RA. If I am having a really super day, I think I am super woman and go full speed. I have found this is not good as I always pay the next day with really bad fatigue. Learning to pace myself is what it is all about for me.

I have decided to do pain management therapy with a psychologist. I was recently told I have all the markers of fibromyalagia but the doctor wouldn't "formally" diagnose me with fibro. I have been through a battery of tests to rule out other things and thank the good Lord those were normal. My RA is under good control based on my sed rate and CPC. So...the reason I was given for my terrible arm pain is myofascial pain syndrome after my back surgery and neck fusion this past May. I cannot accept this is normal healing!