Services / Service details
Arthritis
Recognising inflamed joints and distinguishing their causes.
Understanding the condition
Arthritis means joint inflammation. It may result from rheumatic disease, gout, infection or other causes. Early assessment helps prevent joint damage and choose suitable treatment.
Common symptoms
Pain, swelling, warmth and restricted movement are common. Some inflammatory conditions cause prolonged morning stiffness. A single very painful, hot joint with fever needs urgent assessment.
Diagnosis and assessment
We assess which joints are affected, duration, accompanying symptoms and medical history. Examination and selected blood tests aid assessment. Rheumatology review, imaging or joint aspiration may be required; a blood test alone does not clarify every case.
Treatment and ongoing care
Treatment depends on the cause and may include anti-inflammatory measures and adapted activity. Early rheumatological treatment is important for rheumatoid arthritis. We support the specialist-agreed treatment, required checks and care for associated conditions.
Monitoring your progress together
We discuss which changes to watch for in everyday life and when another check-up would be useful. Your questions, personal goals and how well you tolerate treatment inform further decisions. Where needed, we coordinate with your treating specialists.
Your appointment at the practice
Bring your health insurance card, recent medical letters, existing test results and a medication list. Note any changes in your symptoms and your main questions. Do not change existing treatment yourself; we will discuss together whether adjustments are needed.