RA

Hi....this is all new to me. Been diagnosed with RA. This has come on suddenly. I was a very active 55 Yr old female. Hand suddenly ballooned up with excruciating pain in both wrists/hands (left me whaling in pain and v teary) now suffering in shoulder and elbow. I have been referred as an urgent referral to a rheumatologist as my inflammation markers are through the roof with a 80 percent indication of RA. I am hopeful that once on the right meds the pain can be managed. Currently the array of painkillers and strong anti inflammatories do not touch the side. My question is... does life ever get back to normal and will my grip return? I lost my grip at the first period of swelling and 8 weeks down the line I am still struggling. Thanks.