Hi Julie, Welcome to Health Care Magic , thank you for posting your query . I understand your concern. Rheumatoid Arthritis can be treated by oral medications if not severe, Injections are not mandatory prescription for RA. The general measures you could take are : 1. The application of heat or cold can relieve pain or stiffness. 2. Passive and active exercises can improve and maintain range of motion of the joints. 3. Rest and rest splinting can reduce joint pain and improve joint function. Finger splinting and other assistive devices can prevent deformities and improve hand function. 4.Relaxation techniques can relieve secondary muscle spasm. 5. Give up smoking and alcohol if you are habitual smoker/ consume alcohol. 6. Eat right, exercise well and stay fit to reduce symptoms.(Physical activity keeps joints flexible). Along with these taking drugs like NSAID S , DMARD S , Glucocoticoids can help you manage RA , and its symptoms. a few drugs that you could consider taking after consulting your orthopedician are methotrexate, hydroxychloroquine, sulfasalazine, and leflunomide. If the pain is unbearable, consider taking analgesics. Hope this answers your query satisfactorily. Do write back to me for further assistance. wish you good health.