According to the American College of Rheumatology, the ultimate goals in managing RA are reducing pain and stiffness, controlling disease progression and preventing loss of function. A number of approaches are used to reach these goals, such as physical and occupational therapy, exercise and medication. Some of the medications used to treat RA are for the purpose of pain relief only, some are used to reduce joint inflammation and still others are used to help slow or prevent joint damage.

For many people with RA, disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs) are effective in reducing pain and stiffness and slowing or stopping the progression of joint damage, thereby preserving joint function. Because DMARDS may take up to several months to to take effect, NSAIDs are often continued along with DMARDs.