AARA News
Pivotal AARA Clinical Research on Non-Medicine RA Treatment Published in Nature Medicine
Vagus nerve-mediated neuroimmune modulation for rheumatoid arthritis: a pivotal randomized controlled trial
Recognition for the research study that led to the FDA-approval of a vagal nerve stimulator for adults with moderate to severe rheumatoid arthritis (RA) continues to gain traction in the medical community. Nature Medicine, a premiere research journal, published the work of Principal Investigator John R.P. Tesser, MD, FACP, MACR, and key contributor AARA Clinical Research—work that now gives patients a new treatment option for RA, particularly those resistant to traditional medical treatments.
"As we know, this is the first device to be approved by the FDA for any autoimmune disease and specifically for rheumatoid arthritis. And this is the first new mechanism of action treatment approved for rheumatoid arthritis since 2012!"
John R. P. Tesser, MD, FACP, FACR, MACRJanuary 30th Arthritis Educational Event
January Arthritis Educational Event: Lindsay DeWolfe to present with Arthritis Foundation
On January 30th, 2026, the Arthritis Foundation will host Living Well with Life Hacks—an educational forum where those in the arthritis community will be able to receive free expert advice from local healthcare providers. This year's featured speakers include AARA's Lindsay DeWolfe, DNP, FNP-C, and Lindsey Cambra, DPT, of Fyzical Therapy and Balance.
Those living with arthritis are encouraged to register for this FREE event to get proven tips to protect joints and make daily tasks easier.
"I'm really excited to be presenting to our community members living with arthritis and sharing how small, simple changes can make a big difference. We'll be talking about easy, practical modifications—like diet and hydration—that can help ease pain and improve quality of life without relying on medications."
Lindsay DeWolfe, DNP, FNP-C- This event is FREE but registration is required.
- Food and refreshments will be served.
Don't let arthritis or pain control you. Take charge!
Vagal Nerve Stimulation for Rheumatoid Arthritis: A Disruptive Advance in Science
By Leonard H. Calabrese, DO
Fact checked by Shenaz Bagha
On July 30, the FDA approved the first device of its kind — a vagal nerve stimulator for adults with moderate to severe rheumatoid arthritis whose disease is not adequately controlled by existing therapies, including biologics.
This month’s Healio Exclusive, in which I had the privilege of joining with a distinguished group of rheumatology consultants — including Andrew J. Holman, MD; Vibeke Strand, MD, FACP, MACR; and John R.P. Tesser, MD, FACP, MACR — also features Kevin J. Tracey, MD, whose discoveries mapped the inflammatory reflex and reshaped our understanding of brain-immune communication that made this therapy possible.
A Very Special Guest Lands Atop the Roof of an AARA Clinic
‘Twas the week before Christmas, when all through suites,
Infusion nurses healed, not missing a beat…
Today, one lucky AARA clinic began its morning with a mighty pounding of hoofs and a hearty laugh echoing throughout its halls.
Old St. Nick, AKA Santa Claus, walked into our infusion suite with a jolly stride for his regular infusion—no doubt at the behest of health-conscious Mrs. Claus. She remarked that the busy week ahead of him meant his health needed to take priority. Mr. Claus was inclined to agree. How else would we have the strength to spread goodwill across the world?
He anointed his infusion chair the “Chair of Cheer” before he nestled in and spent the whole of his time making his fellow guests smile with glee.
As quick as he came, off he went! We wish him luck, that old St. Nick.
Happy Holidays and a Happy New Year from all of us at Arizona Arthritis & Rheumatology Associates!
Happy Holidays and a Happy New Year from all of us at Arizona Arthritis & Rheumatology Associates!
