Rheumatoid Arthritis – Symptoms, Causes, Natural Conditions

Rheumatoid Arthritis – Symptoms, Causes, Natural Conditions

Introduction: Why Rheumatoid Arthritis Needs a New Approach

Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) is more than joint pain—it’s an autoimmune condition that causes chronic inflammation, fatigue, and systemic damage if left untreated. At Patients Medical in New York City, we go beyond symptom suppression. Our integrative model blends Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT) with functional, nutritional, and holistic care to help manage RA symptoms naturally and improve joint health from the inside out.
We treat the root causes—not just the inflammation.

What Is Rheumatoid Arthritis?

RA is an autoimmune condition where the immune system mistakenly attacks the synovium—the lining of the joints. Over time, this leads to joint damage, pain, swelling, stiffness, and even loss of function. RA can also affect the lungs, eyes, skin, and heart.

It differs from osteoarthritis in that RA is systemic and immune-driven, not just wear and tear.

Common Symptoms of Rheumatoid Arthritis

RA symptoms can fluctuate and include:

Early diagnosis is crucial to avoid permanent joint damage.

Root Causes: Why RA Develops and Worsens

In functional medicine, we look for immune triggers and lifestyle factors that drive RA.

Common contributors include:

  • Leaky gut and dysbiosis
  • Molecular mimicry triggered by infections or gluten
  • Heavy metal or mold exposure
  • Vitamin D or antioxidant deficiencies
  • Unresolved trauma and chronic stress
  • Food sensitivities (especially gluten and dairy)
  • Estrogen and cortisol imbalances
  • Genetic predisposition (e.g., HLA-DR4)
Why RA Develops and Worsens

Diagnostic Testing We Use

At Patients Medical, we run advanced panels to uncover what’s driving your RA and guide personalized care:

Rheumatoid Factor (RF), Anti-CCP, ESR, CRP

ANA, thyroid antibodies, and immune profiling

Gut microbiome and intestinal permeability testing

Heavy metal and toxin testing

Nutrient deficiencies (Vitamin D, omega-3, selenium)

Food sensitivity and gluten intolerance tests

Adrenal and hormone panels

Mitochondrial function and oxidative stress markers

Integrative Treatments for RA

Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT)

HBOT delivers 100% oxygen at elevated atmospheric pressure, allowing it to dissolve into plasma and reach inflamed tissues. In RA, HBOT helps:

  • Decrease joint and systemic inflammation
  • Boost oxygenation and cellular repair
  • Support tissue regeneration and reduce oxidative stress
  • Modulate immune system overactivity
  • Improve energy and reduce fatigue

Many RA patients report improved mobility, reduced pain, and lower inflammatory markers after multiple sessions.

Anti-Inflammatory Nutritional Therapy

Anti-Inflammatory Nutritional Therapy

Our nutrition plans reduce inflammation, support immune balance, and protect joints:

  • Autoimmune Protocol (AIP), Mediterranean, or gluten-free plans
  • Elimination diets to identify immune-reactive foods
  • Omega-3 and antioxidant-rich meals
  • Low-histamine or nightshade-free diets (if sensitive)

IV Nutrient Therapy

IV therapy provides targeted support for inflammation and joint repair:

  • Vitamin C, glutathione, and B-complex
  • Magnesium and zinc for joint and immune health
  • Curcumin and alpha-lipoic acid infusions
  • Myers’ Cocktail to replenish cellular nutrients
IV Therapy
Custom Herbal Prescriptions

Herbal & Nutraceutical Support

We recommend physician-guided supplements tailored to your lab results:

  • Curcumin – natural anti-inflammatory
  • Boswellia – for joint relief
  • Fish oil (EPA/DHA) – lowers joint pain and stiffness
  • Probiotics and L-glutamine – support gut healing
  • Vitamin D3 and magnesium – reduce autoimmunity
  • Serrapeptase – enzyme that breaks down inflammatory proteins

Mind-Body & Stress Reduction Therapies

Chronic stress fuels autoimmune flares. Our holistic approach includes:

  • Acupuncture for pain and inflammation relief
  • Guided meditation and breathwork
  • Adaptogens like ashwagandha and holy basil
  • Sleep optimization and circadian rhythm support
Stress & Mind-Body Reset

Real Case Study: Steven’s Road to Remission

Steven, age 46, came to us after 10 years of living with RA. Despite methotrexate and steroids, he still suffered from fatigue, morning stiffness, and swollen joints.

After comprehensive testing, we discovered:

  • Leaky gut and dysbiosis
  • Mold exposure in his home
  • Severe vitamin D deficiency
  • Elevated inflammatory markers (CRP, Anti-CCP)

His personalized protocol included:

  • 30 sessions of HBOT
  • AIP diet with gut-repair supplements
  • IV glutathione, curcumin, and vitamin C
  • Mold detox and sauna therapy
  • Herbal anti-inflammatory support

Within 4 months, Steven reported 60% less pain, increased energy, and normal CRP levels. His rheumatologist began tapering his meds under supervision.

Steven’s Road to Remission

Testimonials

Meet Our Doctors

Rashmi Gulati, MD

Medical Director of Patients Medical

Stuart Weg, MD

A holistic pain management physician

Dr. Emine Cosar, MD

Consult Dr. Emine Cosar, MD. For Gynecology

Frequently Asked Questions

 Yes. HBOT has been shown to reduce inflammation, pain, and stiffness while enhancing tissue healing in autoimmune conditions.

 Most patients benefit from 20 to 40 sessions, depending on severity and progress.

 Absolutely. Our integrative therapies complement conventional treatments and can help reduce medication dependence over time.

 Yes. We test for gut issues, toxins, infections, and nutrient deficiencies to design a full-body, root-cause approach.

 With improvement, some patients taper medications under their rheumatologist’s supervision. We work alongside your existing care team.

 Every patient receives a tailored plan based on lab results, history, and lifestyle.

 Yes. Gut healing is often the first step in calming the immune system and improving joint health.

 We use evidence-based diets like AIP, Mediterranean, and gluten-free plans tailored to your triggers and labs.

We are out-of-network and provide superbills for possible reimbursement. Many labs may be partially covered.

 Start with a consultation at Patients Medical. We’ll review your full health picture and build a plan that empowers your healing.

Begin Your Journey with Patients Medical

Patients Medical specializes in gently helping the patient identify the root cause of their medical issues and then assist them to recover from their problems to help them move forward to good health.

Request your consultation today!

To schedule an in person on Tele-medicine appointment, please call our office at (212) 794-8800 or email us at info@PatientsMedical.com We look forward to hearing from you

Our medical center in New York City.

Patients Medical PC
1148 Fifth Avenue, Suite 1B New York, NY 10128

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