Is it possible to have RA without much, if any, swelling? I have very symmetrical dull joint achiness and stiffness in feet, ankles, knees, hands (not thumb joints), wrists, and elbows. It's worse in AM, following afternoon nap, and PM, but is better after exercise. I have very little swelling, if any, that's months or years apart. (Had carpel tunnel surgery on both hands 17 yrs ago.) PCP said he was sure it was possible RA (he saw my swollen ankles), but later went to rheumy and he's reluctant to define it further than "arthritis" (hasn't seen any clinical swelling in 4 months I have been going to him). RF 35, Anti-CCP 3, Sed 30 and then back down to 5, no x-rays. Just taking a NSAID. I have osteoporosis so taking Actonal; eat a gluten-dairy free diet; exercise 6 days a week; Grandmother had Lupus (don't think I have other symptoms); I am high risk for thyroid disease because of extensive x-rays to head when I was 5 (TSH 1 yr ago was 1.9). I am a 65 yr "young" female. It's a dilemma. Anyone have any suggestions, ideas, or similar experiences?

Hi, I have a similar situation. I'm 52 and have arthritis in my hands, fingers, elbows, knees, and jaw and neck. I have bone spurs all over my feet that hurt a lot. I had carpal tunnel surgery on the right hand, but didn't go back for the left yet (I don't really want to). I don't have swelling and my blood tests came back normal, but I have pain all the time. It moves around. Some days are not bad, some are miserable. I exercise, but not as much as I used to because of my knees. About 4 times a week I go to the gym.

I would like a diagnosis but I am getting the runaround.