Rheumatoid arthritis: Managing joint pain

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Rheumatoid arthritis is a common autoimmune condition affecting more than 500,000 Australians*.

*AIHW, Rheumatoid arthritis, 2024
Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic disease where your body’s defence system attacks your own joints. This can hurt your hands, wrists, and knees, making them sore and hard to move. Early treatment may prevent joint damage, reduce pain, and/or keeps you active longer.
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RHEUMATOID ARTHRITIS SYMPTOMS

Recognising what rheumatoid arthritis feels like

When you have rheumatoid arthritis (RA), the lining of your joints called the synovium gets swollen
and irritated. This can make your joints hurt and feel stiff, especially when you move.
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The symptoms of RA vary from person to person. Sometimes, the symptoms get worse for a while (called a flare), and then they get better or even go away for a bit (called remission). Common other symptoms include:

  • Pain in more than one joint
  • Tenderness, redness, warmth, and swelling in joints
  • The same joints on both sides of the body are affected (symetrical)
  • Weight loss
  • Fatigue or tiredness
  • Weakness
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RHEUMATOID ARTHRITIS RISK FACTORS

Certain factors can put you at a higher risk

The exact cause of RA is unknown, but there are some risk factors that increase the risk of developing rheumatoid arthritis. If you don't fall into any of these categories but are experiencing symptoms, talk to a doctor. There may be additional risk factors.
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Family history: if a family member has rheumatoid arthritis

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Smoking: can increase your risk

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Genetics: certain genes linked to the immune system may raise your risk

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Environmental triggers: exposure to certain virus/bacteria, secondhand smoke, pollution, chemicals, mineral oils, and silica

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DIAGNOSING RHEUMATOID ARTHRITIS

Catching rheumatoid arthritis early matters

Finding RA early can help stop it from getting worse and protect your joints from damage. If you have joint pain, swelling, or stiffness that doesn’t go away, talk to your doctor. They might send you to a special doctor called a rheumatologist. Rheumatologists are experts who treat arthritis and joint problems. Getting help early can make a difference in how you feel and move every day.
STEP 1
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Talk with your doctor

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Your doctor will ask questions about your symptoms, ask about your health and family history, and do a physical exam.
STEP 2
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Additional tests, if needed

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To get to a diagnosis, your doctor may order x-rays or other lab tests.
STEP 3
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See a rheumatologist

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Your doctor may refer you to a rheumatologist, a doctor who specialises in arthritis and other conditions that impact bones, muscles, and joints.
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TREATMENT AND TRIALS

Living well with rheumatoid arthritis

Taking care of your health can help you feel better and protect your joints. RA management may involve medical care, healthy lifestyle approaches, and support.
Managing a healthy lifestyle
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  • Stay active and keep a healthy weight
  • Avoid joint injuries and repetitive movements
  • Don’t smoke—it can make RA worse
  • Eat foods with antioxidants (like berries and leafy greens) to help reduce inflammation and boost energy
  • Stay active and keep a healthy weight
  • Avoid joint injuries and repetitive movements
  • Don’t smoke—it can make RA worse
  • Eat foods with antioxidants (like berries and leafy greens) to help reduce inflammation and boost energy
Medical treatment options
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There are different types of RA treatments. Your doctor will help you find what works best for you.

Common options include:

  • DMARDs (disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drugs)
  • NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs)
  • Biologics
  • Corticosteroid medicines or injections
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No information on this site is intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare professional with any questions you may have regarding your condition.
CMAT-27282 | May 2026
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