@KimGiuldry, Like you, I too am dairying, gluten free. Trying hard to get away from sugar.(have such a sweet tooth). I have been on plaquinel for over thirty years. It was the first drug that helped me. But over that time other drugs have come and gone, either my system couldn't tolerate them, others just didn't work. I am now one Zeljanx, celebrex and plaquinel. This seems to be the magic formula for now. But with all the ups and downs, Plaquinel has been my mainstay. Embrill also worked wonders, but developed pneumonia and was pulled off. For over a year now I am doing very well on this formula. I am back to swimming three times a week, the only exercise that works for me as I also have spinel stenosis which causes most forms of exercise to be out of the question, including walking for any extensive time. Having been an instructor for the arthritis water exercise class, it is the only form of exercise I recommend for anyone who has RA. one MUST keep those muscles strong, with limited weight on the joints. As hard as it is, one MUST keep the moving!!

I'm trying to learn Tia Chi. I love walking, but on those days when feet are so painful I'll try flexing exercise to hopefully strengthen the legs, but sometimes I get painful cramping in the feet. Even when my legs are painful, I'll do the walking and yes I've broke down a few times and cried while walking, but I got it done and routinely feel somewhat better. Sitting for long periods (30 minutes or less) becomes so uncomfortable that I routinely stand up to complete short typing or data entry. Movement and exercise is key for my well-being.

My Dr. has me taking Tylenol Arthritis which seems to help.

What does your doc say?
I know your on a strict diet.. But the burning pain makes me think gout.. Yes it's usually toes but can spread to knees.
I also get you want to take as little as possible but suffering shouldn't be a priority.
If you have stronger pain meds I would take it and rest put them up with ice/heat whatever makes you feel good.
It doesn't have to be long term. But if you can't get your pain under control it spills into other parts of your life.
Hope you feel better

I think in many ways, OA and RA feel the same...They both ache and cause sharp pain with certain movements. They look different on xray though. And if both elbows and both knees hurt it's most likely the RA. The best way to tell is to get your RA under control if possible....I'm still trying to do that with my hips! I take Humira, methotrexate, and Plaquenil. I can't do no dairy, no gluten and no sugar...especially during the holidays! You are stronger than me!! I get a burning sensation in my feet... I know it's from the RA. I get some brain fog too. I take so many meds and supplements...I get full!