Rheumatology Information

Rheumatology is the branch of medicine that deals with the study and treatment of inflammatory diseases of the joints and soft tissues.

Typically, an inflamed joint will be swollen, hot and be stiff following a period of inactivity (e.g first thing in the morning). Patients with Rheumatoid arthritis may present with more than three affected joints often symmetrical. There may be a family history of rheumatoid arthritis. With early diagnosis and treatment with disease modifying anti rheumatic drugs (DMARDs) patients can lead an active life with minimal symptoms and joint damage can be prevented or markedly slowed down.

Disease activity is monitored using information about the number of swollen and painful joints along with the result of a blood test to determine the value of an inflammatory marker and also using in formation from the patient on a global assessment of global health.

Helen Parnell-Berry carries out DAS28 scores on patients at every clinic appointment. For further information, please use the links page to navigate to the National Rheumatoid Arthritis Society.

In connective tissue diseases such as Lupus there may be many manifestations of the disease. The patients may be tired and may have problems with skin, joints, kidneys,blood, lungs and nervous system. For further information please follow the links page to navigate to Lupus UK.

Rheumatology has come a long way in the last 30 years. There have been great advances in diagnostic techniques and treatments. The British Society for Rheumatology was set up in 1985 to promote excellence in the treatment of people with arthritis and musculoskeletal conditions and supports those delivering it. For further information please visit the links page and click on BSR.

Ankylosing Spondylitis is an inflammatory condition affecting the spine. It may occur before the age of 40, have a slow onset and is characterised by backache which improves with exercise and is not improved with rest. It is worse in the mornings. For further information please visit the links page and navigate to the National Ankylosing Spondylits Society.

Osteoporosis is often referred to as the "fragile bone disease", Broken wrists, hips and spinal fractures may occur after minimal trauma. For further information please visit the links page and navigate to the National Osteoporosis Society.