I did try the Glucosamine & Chondroitin Sulfate for two months and it didn't seem to have any effect. My dad says it helps him, which is why I tried it, but the pain, stiffness and deformity kept getting worse.
Did your doc check your RA factor (via blood test)? My primary doc did and found it to be sky high which is why she referred me to a rheumatologist. The rheumatologist is testing me for a different RA factor and a bunch of other tests, but she is calling it RA because of the first RA test, my family history, and the fact that Lyme's and lupus were ruled out by the first set of blood work. The rheumatologist was surprised by how fast my hands started showing signs of deformity and put me on prednisone and methotrexate. I have been taking the prednisone since Monday and saw instant improvement and am supposed to start on the methotrexate tomorrow as it is a once a week deal. My dad has taken methotrexate for about 10 years, I think, and it keeps him able to use his hands and walk. He considers it a miracle drug.
I will start the metho tomorrow and see how bad I feel from it because I don't know what else to do at this point, but I will try other remedies as well. I seldom drink alcohol, so that is not a problem. I have cut back on caffeine and am drinking lots of water as my chiropractor is convinced that lack of water is a big contributing factor to joint problems. I have been increasing the fresh fruits and vegetables in my diet and have read the general nutritional info the chiro has given me. Much of it is very radical, but I will introduce what I can. Your idea about digestion is one that seems logical and I will pay more attention to that. Also, I have found your recommendation about movement to be very true for me.
Thanks for the details of your condition. I never would have guessed you were having these problems after reading your posts about your active children and busy life. It is encouraging to hear that life goes on and that these conditions are manageable.
