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arthritis in patients who have failed the TNF-blocking biologics.
Orencia (abatacept) is a recently developed biologic medication that blocks T-cell activation. Orencia (abatacept) is now available to treat adult patients who have failed a traditional DMARD or TNF-blocking biologic medication.

The Prosorba column therapy involves pumping blood drawn from a vein in the arm into an apheresis machine, or cell separator. This machine separates the liquid part of the blood (the plasma) from the blood cells. The Prosorba column is a plastic cylinder about the size of a coffee mug that contains a sand-like substance coated with a special material called Protein A. Protein A is unique in that it binds unwanted antibodies from the blood that promote the arthritis. The Prosorba column works to counter the effect of these harmful antibodies. The Prosorba column is indicated to reduce the signs and symptoms of moderate to severe rheumatoid arthritis in adult patients with long standing disease who have failed or are intolerant to disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drugs (DMARDs). The exact role of this treatment is being evaluated by doctors and it is not commonly used currently.

In some patients with severe joint deformity, surgery may be necessary that may range from arthroscopy to partial and complete replacement of the joint.

Some go for natural treatment which include Acupuncture / Acupressure, Biofeedback, Chiropractic, Magnets, Massage, Meditation, Tai Chi, Yoga.
Supplements such as fish oil, glucosamine, chondroitin, MSM are also used. It is not confirmed if these are effective.

complimentary medicine includes regular exercise, eating a nutritious diet and the stress management.Heat and cold applications are modalities that can ease symptoms after exercises.

Future treatments: Scientists throughout the world are studying many promising areas of new treatment approaches for rheumatoid arthritis. These areas include treatments that block the action of the special inflammation factors, such as tumor necrosis factor (TNFalpha) and interleukin-1 (IL-1), as described above. Many other drugs are being developed that act against certain critical white blood cells involved in rheumatoid inflammation. Also, new NSAIDs with mechanisms of action that are different from current drugs are on the horizon.

Studies involving various types of the connective tissue collagen are in progress and show encouraging signs of reducing rheumatoid disease activity. Finally, genetic research and engineering

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