Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune condition in which the immune system attacks the lining of joints, causing inflammation, pain, swelling and, over time, joint damage. It affects around 400,000 people in the UK. Medical treatment is the primary intervention, but a range of complementary therapies can play a meaningful adjunct role in managing symptoms, maintaining function and supporting wellbeing.
Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune inflammatory condition — the immune system mistakenly attacks the synovial membrane that lines joints, causing chronic inflammation. Unlike osteoarthritis, RA is systemic and can affect organs as well as joints. It typically affects smaller joints symmetrically — particularly the hands, wrists and feet — though larger joints can also be involved.
RA is characterised by periods of flare (increased disease activity) and remission. Early, aggressive medical treatment with disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs) and biologics has transformed outcomes significantly in recent decades — many people achieve sustained remission with appropriate medical management.
The complementary therapies described on this page are adjunct support alongside medical care — they are not a replacement for rheumatological treatment, which is essential for managing the underlying disease process and preventing joint damage.
Symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis include:
If you suspect RA — particularly if you have symmetrical joint swelling and prolonged morning stiffness — see your GP promptly. Early diagnosis and treatment is important for preventing joint damage.
Alongside medical treatment, the following therapies can help manage RA symptoms and improve quality of life:
Medical care through a rheumatologist is the primary treatment for RA — if you have not yet been diagnosed or are not under rheumatological care, this should be the priority. Complementary therapies work best as part of a coordinated care plan.
NRAS (National Rheumatoid Arthritis Society) offers excellent resources and support. Versus Arthritis also provides comprehensive information and a helpline.
We don't currently have any therapies mapped to this condition.
Exercise, when appropriate to disease activity, does not worsen RA and is strongly recommended. It improves joint function, reduces fatigue and has cardiovascular benefits. During flares, gentle range-of-movement exercises are appropriate; between flares, more active exercise is beneficial. A physiotherapist with RA experience can guide safe exercise.
Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune inflammatory condition causing symmetrical joint inflammation, typically affecting smaller joints and associated with systemic symptoms including fatigue. Osteoarthritis is a degenerative condition involving cartilage breakdown, affecting larger joints asymmetrically. Morning stiffness lasting more than an hour is more characteristic of RA.
Yes — achieving remission is a realistic goal with modern medical treatment. DMARDs and biological therapies have transformed outcomes in RA, and sustained remission (no active inflammation, near-normal function) is achievable for many people, particularly with early, aggressive treatment.
No — medical treatment (DMARDs, biologics) is essential for RA to manage the underlying autoimmune process and prevent joint damage. Complementary therapies play a valuable adjunct role in managing symptoms and improving quality of life, but they do not modify the disease process.
Evidence suggests that an anti-inflammatory diet (rich in omega-3 fatty acids, vegetables, and Mediterranean-pattern foods) may modestly reduce RA inflammation and symptoms. Maintaining a healthy weight reduces joint load. However, no specific diet has been shown to replace or match the disease-modifying effects of medication.