what do i do when i a flare up?

I understand your pain, literally!  Of course many different things work for many different people, but I would be glad to tell you some of the things that work for me.  Hot baths help.  I know it may sound cheesy, but sometimes I will take up to 5 or 6 of them a day and as hot as I can handle them.  Some people say ice helps them, but for me it has always been heat.  Heating pads have always helped me with throbbing joints.  I use the bean bag kind that you put in the microwave because you can wrap them around and they will mold to you.  I also use a lot of braces.  I use arthritis gloves for the swelling and the throbbing in my hands, and they work wonderfully.  Unfortunately I always have to buy mine online because I have never been able to find them  in a store.  But I use ace bandages for my elbows, wrists, and ankles.  I also use the knee braces for my knees.  All these things really help me.  Of course they don't make my pain going away, but they sure help me deal!  If you are in a flare always remember to let your rheumatologist know as he may want to raise your steroid dosage for a while.  I hope this helps!  I wish you relief soon!  Good luck, and best wishes!