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With the biologics (Humira, Embrel, etc) **always** be guided by your MD - preferably a board-certified rheumatologist. They are very effective, BUT they have lots of side effects and can be dangerous. There is a reason drugs are *prescription-only.* They have side effects and only an MD familiar with your case and the effects of the drugs should decide whether they are good for you. (Or your DD.)
As my RA is definitely related to my genetics (mother had it, aunt had it, grandmother had gouty arthritis) as well as probably related to the severe infectious mono I had (Epstein-Barr virus) back when, my doc feels the need to get out the "big guns" in fairly hefty doses. But that isn't the case for all.
Interestingly enough, I have seen a number of cases of JRA spontaneously go into remission in the early teens and not trouble the person for 10 to 40 years. There are also cases of adult-onset RA spontaneously going into remission, too. My MIL had RA that lasted about 2 years, led to mildly deformed hand joints, and then went away. Her daughter, my SIL, was not so fortunate, however, and is severely affected. I'm determined that if mine does not go into remission, however, that I will maintain my mobility as long and as well as humanly possible. I won't give up!
And I encourage all y'all "out there" to fight your arthritis (and fibro) every day and keep going and active by moving, by keeping a positive attitude, by doing intensive PT / OT, using whatever habilitative aids that you need. I'm hoping to get Dragon Naturally Speaking trained well enough to be able to rely on it if my hands give out for typing my reports.
So encourage your DD to keep on with her dancing and other activities!
Cheerio!
Elizabeth
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~*~ Fall seven times, stand up eight. ~*~
~*~ Japanese Proverb ~*~
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