A short course of steroids may be helpful. Please call your rheumatologist to see if that’s possible.
January 22
What can help manage pain during a flare-up while waiting for your appointment?
Dealing with a two-week flare while waiting for your appointment is really tough. Here are some approaches that can help:
Immediate pain relief options
- Try heat therapy (warm baths, heating pads) to ease muscle spasms and improve blood flow Show Full Answer
What can help manage pain during a flare-up while waiting for your appointment?
Dealing with a two-week flare while waiting for your appointment is really tough. Here are some approaches that can help:
Immediate pain relief options:
- Try heat therapy (warm baths, heating pads) to ease muscle spasms and improve blood flow
- Use cold packs to reduce inflammation
- Consider over-the-counter NSAIDs like ibuprofen (Advil) or naproxen (Aleve) for mild to moderate pain
Rest and stress management:
- Get plenty of rest and don't push yourself
- Take breaks when your body needs them
- Try breathing exercises or meditation to manage stress, which can worsen flares
Contact your doctor's office:
Since you're in a prolonged flare, it's worth calling your rheumatologist's office to explain the situation. They may be able to prescribe steroids like prednisone over the phone or get you in sooner. Many members find that prednisone helps with joint inflammation, stiffness, and pain during flares.
One myRAteam member shared that having someone gently move their joints during severe pain actually helps relieve discomfort and get the joint moving again.
Hang in there - flares are temporary, even though they're incredibly frustrating when you're in the middle of one.
January 20
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