Creaky Joints reports on the four stages of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) progression and the corresponding symptoms. 

"We have many effective treatments for RA that help control the symptoms of joint pain and stiffness, but also prevent progression of the disease and the development of permanent damage," says Lindsay S. Lally, MD, rheumatologist at HSS, who notes it can be challenging to diagnose RA in the very early stages.

According to Dr. Lally, although periods of pain may resolve on their own in early RA, "these episodes tend to become more frequent and longer in duration until the classic features of RA persist".

A 'treat-to-target' approach, which is a "partnership between patient and physician to get RA into a state of low disease activity or remission" helps manage the disease and prevent progression.

Read the full article at CreakyJoints.org.