I was tested twice before the markers came up that I had RA. That was back in 1991. I also have OA and Polymylgia Romatica. I am on Methotrexate. I find that if I wear the support gloves without finger tips, and have them fairly tight, it supports the muscular structure of my hands. I use a combination of heat and cold. The back and forth seems to help with the pain and the swelling. I have learned that I need to pace myself when doing any quilting. I listen to my body, and if I am in pain I don't quilt that day. It makes no sense to aggravate it more by pushing myself. The rubs don't seem to help me much. Hope you find a good diagnosis and med that works for you and that it is a slow progression. Jan