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/r/rheumatoidarthritis'
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The most popular Products mentioned in /r/rheumatoidarthritis:
![Tens Unit Plus 24 Rechargeable Electronic Pulse Massager Machine Multi Mode Device with All Accessories [New Model]](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/51zWzvZ120L._SL500_.jpg)
The most popular reviews in /r/rheumatoidarthritis:
I was down to like four strands of eyebrows, almost no eyelashes at all and scalp revealing thin hair. My eyebrows came back with a vengeance, (I’m Mexican so...I’ve never battled NOT having hair), my eyelashes came back ENTIRELY and my hair isn’t thinning. It isn’t thick again but it’s not parting and showing my scalp!
I get it all on amazon but the shampoo is available at WalMart, some Targets, and the collagen I also get at Amazon however is available other places.
Renpure Biotin and Collagen Shampoo, 32 Ounce https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00TYAGMP4/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_wT3eEb02XXZ8H
I stick with this brand
Collagen Peptides Powder (16oz) | Grass-Fed, Certified Paleo Friendly, Non-GMO and Gluten Free - Unflavored https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00XQ2XGAA/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_GV3eEbTE710FD
I’m not loyal - I’ll buy whatever’s on sale with multiple sources of collagen. For some reason the prices are super flexible from order to order.
I was recently diagnosed and put on methotrexate, celebrex, prednisone and folic acid. I already have other prescriptions I take. Some with food, some without, folic acid 3 days a week but not the day I take methotrexate, some stuff twice a day. I know I didn't have a prayer remembering everything. I downloaded an app on my phone that tells me when to take it and I have to check off I did. It's really, really helpful as I too have brain fog. I downloaded this one, but I'm sure there's others too. I hope this helps. https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=eu.smartpatient.mytherapy
Yeah I use a small inflatable air matress similar to this one PLUS a yoga mat and also sometimes a blanket between the two. I plan for my morning stiffness to last an hour or so, so I don't try to do much early morning. Hot packs help a lot too.
My hands get quite sore with all the rope tying while camping so I wear a lot of gloves and try to keep them warm and dry. I take lots of breaks when doing hand-centric activities like putting up tarps.
Don't waste your money. I tried one, and unless her hand fits perfectly, she could end up doing damage. Also, it just squeezes. No massage, just squeezing, no real benefits unfortunately. I returned my version.
THIS stuff right here, worth its weight in gold. LOL :
Comes in all sizes - that link can get you started though. 😁
This has saved me many a time https://www.amazon.com/dp/B06WGP2CVL/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_cOqaGb75GZ0Y3?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1 A foot spa is helpful too and I make my own bath bombs with different stuff to help. I also use Bengay with lidocaine bc I can't can't anything with menthol.
You can grow out of RA, I did. I had JRA when I was 11 and didn't have it when I was 16. I developed an allergic reaction to Ibuprofen, so my doctor at the time thought I still had it and kept upping my dosage of Ibuprofen. When I was 16 years old and was taking 24000mg of the drug a day, causing me to develop ulcers in my stomach....
Anyway, at 16, I didn't have RA any longer, but that was Juvenile RA. I got over JRA - but my doctor told me that I would almost certainly have some form of arthritis again in the future. Now I'm 42 and it's come back with a vengeance.
As far as managing your drug costs and adapting your life to live with the disease - I've had a lot of progress with Hydroxychloroquine. I have bone spurs, so when my doctor's prescribed it to me, I thought about running for POTUS, but hey... It was a good laugh.
Also, I recommend finding what therapeutics work for you. I went a good 5 years with just wearing compression gloves when I sleep. That was the only place I had issues, and I thought it was just because I was typing all day. I was able to completely function by just wearing them at night.
A good heating pad is also good. I've been preaching this one, and just showed it to my Rheumatologist today, during a tele-visit: www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07WWL22GR/
Certainly. Here's the thing, when you look at the side effects look at the percentages of occurrence with dosing. For RA, the moderate to severe side effects at our dosing are pretty rare.
Fwiw, I'm on Methotrexate. Please feel free to ask if you have any questions.
I also wear compression fractures (I type most of the day) and they really make a HUGE difference. Here's what I wear (I love the texture!) https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0006U7YFI/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1
My teen burned his hand a month ago probably second degree. These saved him in the shower we just taped them down and his had was ok in 7 days. SilverSeal Burn and Wound... https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08YS3G52Q?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share
I'm so, so sorry you're going through this! I'm around your age (22 years old) and was recently diagnosed this past August. I completely understand just looking for advice/encouragement/insight/literally ANYTHING while waiting to see a rheumatologist. It can be so painful (both physically and mentally) to go through, especially at a younger age.
What helped me the most while waiting to see a rheumatologist was (of course) ice packs, I specifically recommend this one for your hand(s): https://www.amazon.com/dp/B089Y3R4Y2/ref=cm_sw_r_api_i_NYDN1J4RGYH0ZKESDFEQ_0 This same brand also offers ones for your knees and ankles. Life saver.
Resting, taking NSAIDs, and being as gentle with myself as possible during the waiting period helped the most. As someone else noted, keeping a symptom list helps a ton along with taking pictures of any visible symptoms (i.e. swollen knuckles, redness, rash etc.). I hope you can find some answers and relief ASAP! <3
This thing helps me out in so many ways!
This is what I used. I put the part with the arm/backrest in the tub and tucked the curtain in one of the creases of the seat. They’re height adjustable and have huge rubber feet to be non-slip.
maybe something like this? never tried it but it looks like it would maybe give you a cushion to grip rather than making a tight fist
Hang in there.
I got and read this book while I was waiting for diagnosis:
Living with Rheumatoid Arthritis
Good luck!
I was diagnosed late last year at 55. My pain is mostly in my hands and wrists with flairs starting at night. I have found these helpful for sleeping or anytime. https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0015TGO0A?psc=1&ref=ppx_yo2ov_dt_b_product_details
What kits are you looking at?
These would carry a hell of a lot of them.
r/SkincareAddiction would be a good place to search. So many comments about SPF products and needs.
My personal experience is that sprays are too inconsistent in coverage. I will use a traditional sunscreen lotion in the morning and then reapply with spray throughout the day if necessary.
My favorite for face
My favorite for body
I've found that work from home call center work can be a good option. Allows me to use tons of heating pads/etc and not put too much effort towards appearance/commuting/etc. Sitting for a long time can be difficult too so getting a good seat pad (I recommend this one Everlasting Comfort Seat Cushion Pillow for Office Chair - Sit Longer, Feel Better - Butt, Tailbone, Back, Coccyx, Sciatica Memory Foam Cushions - Computer Desk Pain Relief Pad https://smile.amazon.com/dp/B01EBDV9BU/ref=cm_sw_r_apan_i_BYECP922TDS3J42K29KQ?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1). Voltaren gel and heating pads for pain; you're so incredibly strong for making it even 2 hours 💪💜. Things will get better; it will take time and medication trials and fails but I promise it can get better!!
I asked my doc about seronegative diagnosis and docs refusing treatment based on the lack. Her opinion was people in that situation should just find a different doc & that there are clinical diagnosis & such, apart from just relying solely on the blood test.
As for your grip problems... I have a similar problem when my hands get cold at night. Even the slightest breeze from the ceiling fan can cause me to be useless the next day. So... I sleep with gloves on.
I've tried a few compression gloves, but the best ones I've found are a neoprene type material, like a wet suit. Here's a link to the ones I use.
I second the heated blanket, it is truly a godsend. I actually have one of these bad bois: wearable heated blanket and wearing it helps a lot, especially with shoulder pain and the cold weather this time of year. I also like to use it after taking a cold shower. The cold of the shower helps sooth inflammation and then the heat eases stiffness.
Is your toddler mature enough to sit/not fall off something like this? Toddler Booster Seat for Dining Table, PU Washable Double Safer Straps Non-Slip Bottom Booster Seat Dining Toddler, Portable Travel Increasing Cushion (Grey) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08F3HPSVZ/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_i_B32CRAVQHQPPWNXVA8PR?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
We have a 3 year old on the weekends and her booster seat had an insert that we just separated, so now she’s able to sit in the shell. It gives just enough boost and without the insert the shell is wide enough for her to still grow in to. I think this is what we use: https://www.target.com/p/ingenuity-smartclean-toddler-booster-slate/-/A-50478164
I just got a ring size adjuster like this. I got my ring sized a bit large so it will fit comfortably even on most swollen days and then use the size adjuster on good days. I only need a couple loops of it to make it fit usually (so not nearly as many as the picture shows), so it’s not super noticeable. It makes fitting my ring on way easier, and it’s a super affordable solution.
I also bought an ring holder on Etsy from a shop called Alora Locks for when I need to remove my ring because it’s bothering me. I don’t have to remove the necklace add my ring like most ring holding necklaces, it just clips on.
There's also RA compression gloves. I bought the IMAK ones. They do help. I wear mine as much as I can, not just as I'm sleeping. https://www.amazon.ca/dp/B001GAOHSY?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share
Good luck!!!
I just remembered something else. This is kind of crazy, but I've heard about these kinds of foot pedal controls before:
Not necessarily that brand, but the same idea. I think my group was talking about someone who uses these pretty seriously for gaming. It might be worth a try - you could program certain spells to work with foot pedals to take some of the load off your hands.
There are options like OTC Voltaren gel for your hands and joints, fwiw. Don't forget compression gloves, which are a GODS SEND!
There are great iPad stands for desks/tables. And even a flexible "long arm" holder, if you need to walk around with it.
Zofran helps tremendously with nausea. Meclizine helps with vertigo, but causes tiredness in some.
I'm sitting in my lounge chair (raising feet helps me), wearing a fleece jacket, cozy soft scarf (keeps drafts off my neck, which can help prevent headaches) and these compression gloves - (they are AMAZING!). They also help with grip issues with RA - due to pain, we lack feedback, so it's easy to drop things.
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0006U7YFI/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1
You are most welcome, thoughtful RA spouse.
That's the general thought, but not being able to function isn't normal. Fwiw, there's quite a bit of research showing that SSRIs help with fatigue in chronic pain/chronic illness patients. Neurologically, we're under tremendous stress and both acute and subacute pain does a number on our brain.
This book helped me understand this (I fought it for years) - https://www.amazon.com/dp/B003R0L6W6/ref=dp-kindle-redirect?\_encoding=UTF8&btkr=1
My rheumy started me on them and it's helping tremendously.
I'm curious to hear what other people say about this. I'm a recently diagnosed software developer, and I struggle with this too. So far I've focused most on posture and arm / wrist support since my hands aren't terrible with treatment. I use this office chair with extra padding on the arm wrest. With a special lower platform for my keyboard / mouse I don't need to move my hand much to use the mouse. That has helped a lot but on days when my fingers hurt it is still a problem because the clicking motion is difficult. I've looked into the 'joystick' mice but that seems even worse because the gripping motion is more painful for me. I use the Logitech MX Master but I wouldn't say its great. I haven't found a keyboard I can actually recommend yet.
yes - ice - I love these pain cakes - they stick to your skin and are restickable - they are small enough that you can put them right on your skin without burning it. https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07K6XZ52W/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1
stagger ibuprofen and tylenol if you can take both. every two hours take a 4-hr dose of one or the other.
stand up every half hour at least
I'm recently diagnosed, my levels of inflammation are off the charts so besides prednisone and celebrex twice a day while we hope the other meds work, I bought these for my hands/wrists and they help. https://www.amazon.ca/dp/B07RT24JKS/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_glt_i_WB2HG3T0TMNZ1GCW271R
I am horrific at taking meds but now am taking 15+ per day. I bought this organizer and synced the times with something I did every day. First pills right after I brush my teeth, second with breakfast/brunch/lunch, third with lunch or dinner, and fourth before bed.
wrist brace and elbow strap. wear the wrist brace 24/7 and the elbow strap during the daytime for 2 weeks. if it's better then ease back into things, if not then keep bracing for another two weeks. if it's not better after that you might need to find an orthopedist (preferably hand/upper extremity person) to consider other options like cortisone or PRP injections.
I have an electric jar opener that I absolutely love
Electric Jar Opener, Kitchen Gadget Strong Tough Automatic Jar Opener For New Sealed Jars,The Hands Free Jar Opener with Less Effort to Open https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07SN8KFHM/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glc_fabc_vK48FbWPEVW1A?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
I also like this can opener
Kitchen Mama Electric Can Opener: Open Your Cans with A Simple Push of Button - No Sharp Edge, Food-Safe and Battery Operated Handheld Can Opener(Red) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07FVQLBL3/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glc_fabc_FL48Fb1ZERQ5R?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
This is the one I have. I love it - way better than the one I had previously. It has various sized pads you can use. They also were doing a thing where they'd send 10 sets of pads free if you submitted a review on Amazon.
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B06XXDTC3W/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_fabc_MHO2FbYQNQX04?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
These are both Windows specific but I’ve been using them for Mac for years. I personally set the command/option/control keys to be in the same relative positions as on a Mac keyboard and put labels on the keys. https://www.amazon.com/Microsoft-LXM-00001-Ergonomic-Keyboard/dp/B07Y414QXJ
For the wireless version, you can look up the Microsoft Sculpt, which also has an ergonomic mouse.
I definitely recommend an ergo mouse over a traditional flat mouse like the Magic Mouse and definitely over a trackpad. I’m pretty happy with this $20 one. Much less wrist strain. https://www.google.com/shopping/product/15570718299349161416?q=ergonomic.mouse&rlz=1CDGOYI_enUS734US734&hl=en-US&biw=414&bih=720&tbs=cat:304,pdtr0:960650%7C960651,vw:l,init_ar:SgVKAwiwAkoKUggIitE6IIvROkoHsgQECNrzIA%3D%3D,ss:44&...
I hope this link work. It’s a 5 in 1 Jar Opener on Amazon. Also a flat screwdriver to start cans with pull tabs and an adjustable pliers to open bottles. Black And Decker Lids Off electric opener. Sharp but small scissors that are easy to pull open. Put it all in a basket that can sit on a stair without tipping so he can let go while carrying things up stairs. Bonus if it has sections to hold a drink (and a bottle!) without tipping. Obviously something he can put out of reach of the boys. I’ve had RA for 30 years. DM me if you want more ideas!
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B077XYYSZL/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_A5d3DbWE0CS6H
I have one! It brings a TON of relief. It doesn’t last super long but it does really help. I also have microwaveable mittens I use with the bath to help keep heat longer. This is them——-> REVIX Microwavable Heating... https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0828ZJDQ9?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share
If you get relief from heat I would 1000000% recommend it.
Edit to say, I like to use mine right before bed. Helps me fall asleep. Also, you can leave it on all day during a flare—I do.
I wear mine on a regular basis, especially at work. https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0006U7YFI/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o06_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1
I have compression gloves and I love them. Mine are fingerless so I can still use my phone and other touch devices. I haven’t had a flare, but anytime I feel a little swollen or stiff, I wear them and feel better.
^ Voltaren is good. It was prescription and it’s OTC now. I haven’t really used it but I know others with arthritis that love it.
I ordered some ankle wraps from Amazon, totally inexpensive, and Prime eligible. They have been great. They’ve kept the swelling down and they give enough support to my ankles that I don’t feel like they’re going to break while I’m walking. I’m not sure if I’m allowed to post a link so I apologize in advance if that’s inappropriate but here are the ones that I bought.
Ankle Brace Breathable Ankle Support Adjustable Ankle Stabilizer with Compression Wrap Support, Suitable for Men & Women, Sports (2 Pack)-One Size Fits All(Gray) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B076DSSB5S/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_K1a9CbSDGBPZJ