Question: I have rheumatoid arthritis and can't tolerate any medications I've tried. Is there a drug-free alternative to managing my pain?
Dr. Hibberd's answer:
Rheumatoid arthritis is a destructive immune disorder that literally destroys cartilage tissue and joints, and also affects many organ systems. Treatment must be aggressive to reduce painful consequences of this very serious disorder. That used to mean lots of medications.
But now we now have many much more simple treatment options that can arrest this condition, and you should discuss these newer options with your rheumatologist. Pain management alone will likely lead to disability.
There is a good chance your pain is indicative of something that can be arrested with good aggressive immune suppression, and not a reflection of permanent destruction or damage that will require joint replacement.
Drug-free options are available for pain management, including nerve or spinal-cord stimulators, but all these options require a detailed analysis of your condition, and an analysis of the risks and benefits to you. They should be evaluated in consultation with your primary physician and a specialist.
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