I can relate as I have ra and neuropathy. As far as pain pills go, you need to take them on a regular basis if you are having such extreme, constant pain. The pain pills work much better before the pain gets out of control.
Wear comfortable shoes, forget fashion. You need a wide shoe base with lots of support. You also will need a good, comfy pair of house shoes as going barefoot is hard on your feet and ankles. Be sure your socks are not too tight, it will reduce circulation and can cause more swelling and pain.
Paraffin wax spas are great. Buy the largest size, you can get them relatively cheap at bed, bath and beyond. The heat feels wonderful and it makes your skin very soft!
I alternate heat and cold on my achy joints. I either use ice packs or I have 4 over sized heating pads that I wrap my hands in feet in when I get home!
I do wear the braces at night on my wrists and ankles. It helps them to rest and reduces the pressure. Stretches help keep things from tightening up. A good, full size body pillow makes getting comfortable at night a little easier. Try taking a hot bath before bed to help your muscles relax.
Rest when you feel tired and don't over do it on the days that you don't feel so bad. Every once in a while I have a relatively good day and think I am super woman and try to catch up on everything that had gotten put aside and than I pay for it even worse for a week!
If you type a lot at work, a smaller keyboard is better. It allows your fingers to move less, reducing stress. When you get into and out of the car, sit your bottom down first, than swing both legs together to keep the strain off your hips. Take smaller steps when walker, it reduces hip motion and strain. I put a big safety pin in my seatbelt so it doesn't get too tight on my chest and shoulders. By a purse with a shoulder strap instead of shorter straps if your hands hurt.
Thats about all I can think of at the moment, will add things as they pop into my head! 
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Taking it one day at a time.....
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Re: dealing with joint pain?
