Hello, Martilla,

Are you in the US?  If so, there are protections afforded to you by the Americans With Disabilities Act, or ADA.  Is there another postition in your company that isn't as physically demanding?  Perhaps you could speak to your employer about changing your work duties? I am concerned that you may damage your joints in your current position while you are in the process of getting your RA under control. 

I work at a desk in front of a computer all day.  My employer has already offered to make any accomodations to my work space that I may need.  These might include erogonomic changes, a different keyboard, etc.

Have you missed a lot of work due to pain and fatigue?  If so, you might want to consider filing for FMLA intermittant leave.  I filed this paperwork a month ago, and I am so happy I did.  My employer granted the FMLA leave and I have used about 8 hours a week for physical therapy and doctor's appointments.

Another thing that helped me was changing my work hours from 8 to 5 to 9 to 6.  My worst part of the day is morning, and changing my hours has really helped.  Would changing your hours help in your situation?

Please give us a little more detail about the kind of work you do, and we will try to help. 

It doesn't sound as though Plaquenil is adequately controlling your RA.  It does take about 3 months to work well.  How long have you been on the Plaquenil?  You might need to see your doctor and speak with him/her about adjusting your meds.

Best Wishes,

V

Martilla

5/14/11 2:40am

Well I fix medical equipment for a living at a good size hospital. I walk a lot,bend squat, use small tools, it is hard sometimes. I am liking the idea of starting work later in the day instead of 7 am. I just wish I knew someone with similar jobs to see what worked for them.

The other thing is that we don't have a proper breakroom where I can rest.

Thanks V 

V, Health Guide

5/21/11 1:34pm

Hi, Martilla,

It sounds as though you do have a demanding job.  Is there a room not being used for much that could be converted into a proper break area?  Sometimes I spend much of my lunch hour in my car resting.  Sound kind of silly, but it works for me!

 

Best Wishes,

V

 

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