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Rheumatoid Arthritis Treatment in Blue Ash & Cincinnati

Medically reviewed by Tara J. Adhikari, MD, FACR, board-certified rheumatologist · Last reviewed October 2026

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune disease. The immune system attacks the lining of the joints, causing pain, swelling and stiffness. Without treatment it can damage joints over time. With today's treatments, most people with RA can control their symptoms and protect their joints.

Common symptoms of RA

  • Pain and swelling in the small joints of the hands, wrists and feet

  • The same joints affected on both sides of the body

  • Morning stiffness that lasts an hour or more

  • Fatigue, low-grade fever or feeling generally unwell

RA can also affect the eyes, lungs, heart and blood vessels. That is one reason it is best managed by a rheumatologist.

How we diagnose RA

There is no single test for RA. Dr. Adhikari combines your history and joint exam with blood tests drawn in our office, such as rheumatoid factor, anti-CCP antibodies and markers of inflammation. Musculoskeletal ultrasound in our office can show joint inflammation early, sometimes before it appears on X-ray.

How we treat RA

The goal is remission or the lowest possible disease activity. We aim to start treatment early, because joint damage is hardest to reverse once it happens.

  • Disease-modifying medications that calm the immune system and slow joint damage

  • Biologic and targeted therapies, given as injections at home or as infusions in our on-site infusion suite

  • Ultrasound-guided joint injections for flares in a specific joint

  • Regular monitoring visits and lab work to keep treatment safe and effective

Common questions

Is RA the same as osteoarthritis?

No. Osteoarthritis is wear of the joint cartilage. RA is caused by the immune system and is treated with different medications.

Can RA go into remission?

Many patients reach remission or low disease activity with the right treatment, especially when it starts early.

Schedule an appointment

Call (513) 991-9990. Cincy Arthritis, 9403 Kenwood Rd, Suite C-100, Blue Ash, OH 45242. Mon–Thu 7:30am–4pm, Fri 7:30am–2pm.

This page is general information, not medical advice. Please talk with your doctor about your symptoms.

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