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How do you get up everyday?

A myRAteam Member asked a question 💭
Boston, MA

I have recently been diagnosed with seropositive rheumatoid arthritis and fibromyalgia. I am 37 and have all the symptoms plus nerve damage,honeycomb lung and a breast lump. Never had any problems until 2025 then diagnosed in Oct. 2025 and full blown since then. I am even developing nodules in hands and feet.

January 29
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Reactions
A myRAteam Member

Morning is very difficult for me as well. I sweat at night from inflammation do I like to sleep on the cooler side. I do have an electric blanket that I turn on and wrap myself in and find the heat helps a bit. I also see there are heat warmers for the feet that some are using and note improvement. I have not tried those yet. It’s so tough , especially in long flares to do the morning motions. I feel your pain. I wish there was more help. They say so many meds to try, some work for awhile, then it’s on to the next. Take care. I hope you can find something to feel better 😊❤️

February 3
A myRAteam Member

None of that helps but thanks for response.

January 29
myRAteam

How can you manage getting up every day with rheumatoid arthritis?

Getting up each day with RA can be challenging, especially with morning stiffness, but there are several strategies that can help make mornings more manageable.

Immediate Morning Relief:

- Take NSAIDs (like aspirin) with water kept on your bedside table Show Full Answer

How can you manage getting up every day with rheumatoid arthritis?

Getting up each day with RA can be challenging, especially with morning stiffness, but there are several strategies that can help make mornings more manageable.

Immediate Morning Relief:

- Take NSAIDs (like aspirin) with water kept on your bedside table before getting up
- Start with gentle stretches in bed before rising - try drawing knees to chest for your back, or slowly bending and straightening your knees
- Take a warm bath or shower to help loosen stiff joints
- Never push past mild discomfort into actual pain when stretching

Planning Ahead:

- Set out clothes the night before
- Keep easy-to-prepare breakfasts on hand (overnight oats, cereal)
- Consider working with a physical therapist who can teach proper range-of-motion exercises

Throughout the Day:

- Schedule gentle exercise like walking or tai chi in the morning to improve mobility
- Take 15-minute breaks for walks or stretches if you have a desk job
- Consider an anti-inflammatory diet (Mediterranean, high-fiber, or vegan) Important Note About Your Symptoms:

Since you were recently diagnosed and are experiencing rapid progression with nodules developing, it's crucial to stay in close contact with your rheumatologist. Significant fatigue, worsening stiffness, and visible nodules may indicate you need adjustments to your treatment plan.

A myRAteam member shared a similar experience: after discussing increased fatigue, stiffness, and visible nodules with their rheumatologist, they received treatment adjustments that helped improve their quality of life.

Early, aggressive treatment with disease-modifying drugs can help prevent further joint damage, especially within the first few months of diagnosis.

January 29

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