Hi Fiona, I started having PA when I was 21. I am now 55, still have PA, but have never taken any medications except for Advil. I was lucky to have a mild course, some episodes of pain (wrists, feet, shoulder)here and there, but with pain free years in between. so in my case looking back, it makes sense that I didn't use medications. I have some slightly swollen fingers and left wrist, and some crooked toes, but otherwise I am fine.
Of course you cannot predict if your life course will be mild or more severe so your decision could be difficult and involve some risk.
I take some supplements such as vit D and glucosamine sulphate and try to follow a mostly gluten free diet, with lots of fruits and vegetables (I basically follow the formula described in vit D/ibu see alternative section)
