When I first started noticing that dull ache in my lower back, I brushed it off as simple overuse from working long hours at my desk. But over time, the discomfort crept in more frequently and lingered longer. Eventually, it was more than just a nuisance—it began interfering with my sleep and daily routine. I…
Waking up with stiff, aching joints isn’t the best way to start your day. If this happens often, especially in the morning, you might be wondering what’s going on. One possible cause is rheumatoid arthritis (RA), a chronic autoimmune condition that can affect how your joints feel and function. Morning body aches can be a…
If you’ve been navigating the rollercoaster ride of rheumatoid arthritis (RA), you’ve probably wondered more than once, “Is my food making this worse?” As a Rheumatology nurse practitioner, I’ve had more patients ask me about foods that trigger RA flares than almost anything else. And let me tell you—diet can absolutely make a difference. The…
As a Rheumatology nurse practitioner, I’ve seen firsthand how the colder months can stir up all sorts of discomfort for folks living with RA. If you’ve ever felt your joints get stiffer or more painful just as the temperatures drop, you’re not imagining things. The link between RA and winter joint pain is real—and for…
If you’ve ever asked yourself what RA joint pain feels like, you’re not alone—and as a Rheumatology nurse practitioner, I’ve had this conversation more times than I can count. Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) pain isn’t just your typical ache or stiffness after a long day. It’s deep, persistent, and can feel downright cruel. One of my…
If you’ve ever battled the daily discomfort of rheumatoid arthritis (RA), you know how important it is to find natural ways to ease the pain and inflammation. Over the years working as a rheumatology nurse practitioner, I’ve seen patients discover relief in some surprising places—like their teacups. Yes, the best teas for RA relief might…
If you’re living with rheumatoid arthritis, you already know it’s more than just joint pain — it’s a daily challenge that can test your patience, energy, and overall well-being. From my years working as a rheumatology nurse practitioner, I’ve seen firsthand how the right self-care strategies can make a real difference in managing symptoms and…
If you’re living with rheumatoid arthritis (RA), you know that flare-ups can hit without much warning — turning a normal day into a painful struggle. How to prepare for a rheumatoid arthritis flare-up isn’t just about managing pain when it happens; it’s about anticipating those tough days and arming yourself with strategies to lessen their…
When it comes to managing rheumatoid arthritis (RA), one question I hear time and again from patients is: “What’s the best way to track rheumatoid arthritis symptoms?” From my years working as a rheumatology nurse practitioner, I can tell you it’s not just about jotting down joint pain or swelling on a piece of paper….