Persistent shoulder pain despite long-term treatment requires re-evaluation by your doctor or a rheumatologist, especially since your RA factor is negative. Being RA factor negative does not rule out other types of arthritis, tendon or joint injuries, or autoimmune conditions. Your doctor may recommend imaging, blood tests, or other assessments to determine the underlying cause and whether your current medication is appropriate. All arthritis medications can have potential side effects, which vary depending on the type, dose, and duration. Do not change or stop your medication on your own. Discussing your symptoms, treatment effectiveness, and any side effects with your doctor is essential to ensure safe and effective management.

Pain in the heel that is worse in the morning and improves after walking is commonly caused by plantar fasciitis, which is inflammation of the thick band of tissue connecting the heel to the toes. It often results from prolonged standing, wearing unsupportive footwear, obesity, or excessive physical activity. Other possible causes include heel spurs, Achilles tendonitis, or, less commonly, systemic conditions like arthritis. You should consult a doctor or podiatrist for an accurate diagnosis. In the meantime, stretching exercises for the calf and plantar fascia, wearing supportive shoes, applying ice to the heel, and avoiding prolonged standing can help relieve discomfort. Early management can prevent worsening and support faster recovery.

Complete stiffness in all joints with inability to move is a medical emergency. You should seek immediate care at a hospital or call emergency services. This could be caused by severe musculoskeletal or neurological disorders, advanced arthritis, spinal cord injury, severe infections, or metabolic problems. Doctors will perform urgent blood tests, imaging, and neurological examinations to determine the cause and begin appropriate treatment. Prompt medical attention is critical to prevent permanent disability or life-threatening complications.

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and osteoarthritis (OA) are both conditions that affect the joints, but they have different causes and characteristics. RA is an autoimmune disease in which the immune system attacks the joint lining, causing inflammation, pain, and swelling, often affecting multiple joints symmetrically. OA is a degenerative joint disease caused by the wear and tear of cartilage over time, leading to stiffness, pain, and reduced mobility, typically in weight-bearing joints such as the knees and hips. While both conditions cause joint pain and can limit daily activities, RA primarily involves inflammation and systemic effects, whereas OA mainly results from mechanical degeneration. In some cases, a person may have features of both, especially as they age. Management and treatment strategies differ, so it is essential to consult a doctor for an accurate diagnosis and individualised care.

Rheumatoid arthritis is a chronic autoimmune condition that requires careful medical management. Oral medications may be prescribed to help reduce inflammation, control symptoms, and slow joint damage, but the choice of medicine, dosage, and monitoring must be determined by a rheumatologist. Self-medicating can be dangerous, as these treatments can affect the immune system and may cause serious side effects. It is essential to consult your doctor to develop a personalised treatment plan that is safe and effective for your condition.