I was diagnosed with RA 16 years ago. At that time, I had a real flare-up and it took a couple of years to get it to where I could use my hands without having a terrible night. I guess it is in remission right now because it isn't troubling me much. One dr. said I was borderline so I guess that is why it isn't as crippling for me.

I tried many of the prescription drugs but have found that most of the side effects aren't worth it. Mostly stomach trouble but developed a kidney stone from all the calcium (Tums) I was taking.
Anyways right now I am using Glucosomine to help rebuild the joint tissue and just use painkillers when i really need it. Off and on I will take Vioxx or Celebrex for a flareup.

I did see a therapist to find ways to use the larger joints rather than small ones. Also this was before those fancy wax skin therapy bath things they have now, so she showed me how to use a crock pot to melt wax and coat my hands. The warmth was great when my hands were hurting so bad.

Kids who get it have a form called juvenile rheumatoid arthritis and it often crippples them up pretty badly.

People who have ra sometimes have to have their knees replace, their hips and even the knuckles in their hands. Their hands can become very disfigured, twisting and turning. But like so many other things, it just depends on the person. If you look more into it, you will find that some people feel a diet that illuminates root food helps - that means anything growing underground, like potatoes, turnips, etc. I haven't noticed that it has made any difference for me.

That's about all I can think of right now. I'll try to answer any questions you might have but I am no expert.