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Can the unbearable pain caused by RA be alleviated?

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Patient's Query

Hello doctor,

I have RA and have been on Prednisone for 15 years or more. I was tapered off with the last dose taken five months before. I now can barely walk, my pain is unbearable, and my right leg and foot are swollen. I have tried every OVC pain medication possible, and nothing is working. What is going on? Should I go to the ER?
Answered by Dr. Srivastava Durgesh

Education:

MBBS

Professional Bio:

Dr. Durgesh Srivastava is a Rheumatologist specializing in the diagnosis and management of autoimmune and musculoskeletal disorders. With expertise in conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, gout, and ankylosing spondylitis, he provides comprehensive, patient-centered care. Dr. Srivastava focuses on improving mobility, reducing pain, and enhancing quality of life through advanced treatment and compassionate support.

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Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I think you need more DMARDs (disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs), preferably a combination of Leflunomide and Methotrexate, should be tried. And Prednisolone will be required until the DMARDs combo works. It does not help in reducing the steroid dose in three to four months, and then biological therapy should be planned. I hope it helps.

Medically reviewed by Dr. Nithila. A
Published At July 29, 2019
Reviewed At November 7, 2025

Education:

MBBS

Professional Bio:

Dr. Durgesh Srivastava is a Rheumatologist specializing in the diagnosis and management of autoimmune and musculoskeletal disorders. With expertise in conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, gout, and ankylosing spondylitis, he provides comprehensive, patient-centered care. Dr. Srivastava focuses on improving mobility, reducing pain, and enhancing quality of life through advanced treatment and compassionate support.

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

Consult other doctors in the same speciality

Education:

BDS

Professional Bio:

Dr. Nithila A is a Dental Surgeon specializing in providing comprehensive oral healthcare. She focuses on preventive care, routine dental treatments, and patient education to maintain optimal oral health. Known for her compassionate and patient-centered approach, she ensures comfortable and effective dental care tailored to the individual needs of each patient.

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Same symptoms don't mean you have the same problem. Consult a doctor now!

Dr. Srivastava Durgesh
Dr. Srivastava Durgesh

Rheumatology

Education:

MBBS

Professional Bio:

Dr. Durgesh Srivastava is a Rheumatologist specializing in the diagnosis and management of autoimmune and musculoskeletal disorders. With expertise in conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, gout, and ankylosing spondylitis, he provides comprehensive, patient-centered care. Dr. Srivastava focuses on improving mobility, reducing pain, and enhancing quality of life through advanced treatment and compassionate support.

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

Consult other doctors in the same speciality
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