Hello...another newbie | Arthritis Information

I just registered for the forum and thought I'd post a greeting with a little info about myself. I was diagnosed with RA about 3 years ago. The first year was pretty tough but it eventually responded well to MTX. Recently xrays have shown some bone erosion and the MTX seemed to be loosing some effectiveness so I started Humira (...about 4 months now). With the Humira I've reduced the MTX by about half and am doing pretty well. The joint pain is mostly gone with some side effects from the meds, but nothing extreme...so I guess I'm one of the lucky ones! It still can be pretty frustrating at times. I'm a physicist with a passion for playing mandolin. I play in a small orchestra in San Francisco and since the first year of RA I've been able to play without much problems...so again I feel fortunate. I'm looking forward to interacting with other members of the forum as my life journey continues to an uncertain future.

Welcome Alan

I'm pleased to hear your RA has not stopped you from playing the mandolin (after the first year anyway). Perhaps, like the rest of our body, the exercise is good for maintaining your hand's range of motions?

This is such a nice board, I hope you feel at home!

hello and welcome Alan...the boards are great for interacting with others. It does sound like you have had success with your treatment...it always gives hope to those still waiting for the magic combination. WELCOME ALAN TO THE BOARDS!!!!! And to all other newbies welcome we are all glad to see you!!!!

I read your post and I am so pleased that you are doing so well on your new meds. It does take a little time to get them to work and the sad thing is that sometimes they stop working for us and we have to start all over again. Yes it can be a bit frustrating but seems that you have things pretty well under control. The best thing about having our RA under control, is still being able to continue doing those things that make you happy, like playing your mandolin.

I wish you continued success with using the Humira and MTX and hope that any pain you may feel, will become only small discomforts.

Thanks for all the warm greetings. I'm looking forward to participating in future discussions.

Physics and music go well together I think...and there's nothing like playing a musical instrument to sooth the soul when it's filled with anxiety. RA can cause a lot of anxiety and it can really amplify the symptons. I also have started practicing an easy form of Yoga which really seems to help with the anxiety feelings.

Thanks again,

Alan

Hi Alan and welcome to the forum. It's nice to hear good news. I used to play mandolin and guitar although not particularly well and only by ear. I'm a teacher and an artist and am working a reduced workload this year. This group has given me a lot of good advice on the mysterious journey with RA. None of us can predict what will happen next, but I think you have the right attitude about trying to live life to the fullest.

Welcome Alan!!!

OK MEME.....where is the party!!!! You failed to tell us!!!!