If you're just beginning your RA journey, there are some products that I would argue you absolutely need. You'll need them because even though they won't take away your pain or symptoms, they will provide comfort and assist you in daily tasks. I've linked specific products here, but there are so many options out there so don't be afraid to spend some time browsing the internet for interesting devices and tools.
Compression gloves work by compressing fluid which can reduce swelling and pain. They also provide stability and a comforting "squeezing" sensation. These gloves from Grace & Able are my favorite! They are incredibly soft and don't have an inner tag which is nice for sensory reasons. You can find compression gloves or "arthritis" gloves at most drugstores. (They are easy to lose, so build a nice collection over time!) Compression gloves shouldn't be worn 24/7 or you risk cutting off circulation or making the pain worse. Use them in increments up to 8 hours for best results.
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Bed Buddies are a line of products that you can heat in the microwave. My favorites are the hand mittens and shoulder wrap. They don't keep their heat for too long, but I love these because the filling creates a steamy/humid effect which feels so nice. If you're crafty and looking to save money, you can search "DIY heat packs" for tutorials on how to make your own. Heating pads are also necessary because you don't need to reheat them and they tend to cover more surface area.
Some flares need heat, some need cold. It can be difficult to determine which to use, but a good rule of thumb is if the heat or cold makes the joint worse over the course of 10-20 minutes, stop and use the opposite instead. Cold packs don't have to be fancy — you can use a bag of frozen peas if that's all you have! However, most drug and grocery stores have large selections of wraps that can be stored in the freezer and serve specific joints.
Voltaren is an NSAID cream, like Ibuprofen but in cream form. It allows you to target certain joints with medication so you get stronger pain relief. Voltaren doesn't penetrate super deep, so it's best used on hands, feet, and any other joints that aren't deep under tissue or fat. Because it's an NSAID it's important to pay attention to dosage because it can cause the same side effects as oral NSAIDS. There are plenty of off-brand equivalents that are available at most drug and grocery stores.
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This balm has a combination of arnica and menthol — arnica for inflammation and swelling, menthol for a cooling sensation. It's compact design makes it easy to throw in a bag or keep at your desk. (Plus it's got super cute, holographic packaging!) When my hands are in a flare I love using Magic Balm, Voltaren, and my compression gloves together.
I love using finger splints when I have a bad knuckle that I keep forgetting to NOT bend. These splints help stabilize your finger so it doesn't move while you're doing daily tasks. They also make "jewelry" versions that look like nice rings so they don't draw attention. Some splints are designed to extend your finger if it's stuck in a bent position. (It's a good idea to let your doctor know you're using these because they may have a reason you shouldn't.)
Browse Jewelry Splints on Etsy
Life continues even in the midst of a flare and support from braces, wraps, and splints will make a world of difference in your ability to cope with daily tasks. It can take time to build up your supply, but look around drug, grocery, and sporting stores for new supports to try. Places like Academy Sports have extensive collections for athletes that double for chronically ill folks.
I won't say too much about this, because everyone is different and has a unique relationship to pain medication, but you will need something to help you through acute flares. Meloxicam (Mobic) and Celexcoxib (Celebrex) are popular NSAIDs often prescribed by Rheumatologists for use during acute flares. All NSAIDS have cons (especially in the longterm) but you could discuss with your doctor if you haven't already. Your doctor may have alternative suggestions that are better suited for your case.
Studies show that almost 70% of RA patients experience anxiety and/or depression. Starting medication to help with those symptoms can make the world of difference when reality hits hard. You can discuss these symptoms with your rheumatologist, but most of the time the treatment plan and prescription will come from your primary care.
Meet Ellen, a chronic illness advocate and the founder of Flare Family. Since developing Rheumatoid Arthritis in 2010, she's dedicated herself to empowering others navigating similar journeys through her TikTok account, @ellenwitharthritis. Led by compassion, she is working to build a community where everyone feels heard, understood, and uplifted.
Ellen is a graphic and web designer who enjoys spending time with her partner, Jarrod, and soul dog, Dolly. Her not so guilty pleasures are Bravo reality shows, donuts, and finding great hiking spots.
Have questions about Flare Family? Need advice about living with Rheumatoid Arthritis? I'm here to connect with you and answer your questions!
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ellenwitharthritis@gmail.com
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