Rheumatology

Tests will only be arranged if clinically appropriate. Blood tests can be sent from our blood room at clinic and if you require an x-ray or MRI this can be arranged for you. If you require an Ultrasound to aid with diagnosis this can be arranged quickly with one of our experienced Consultant Radiologists.

This will depend on your diagnosis and will be specific to you. Drug treatments may be advised to your GP or you may benefit from seeing one of our experienced physiotherapy colleagues. If appropriate you may be offered a joint injection either in clinic or with an experienced Musculoskeletal Radiologist. Certain Rheumatological conditions require long term treatments that are only available through the NHS (disease modifying drugs such as Methotrexate, or biologic drugs). If that is the case you will be referred on to your local NHS Rheumatology department to receive that ongoing treatment. Opioid and other controlled drugs will only be provided through your own GP. We do not prescribe or recommend any cannabis based medications.

We are happy to see and treat adult patients over the age of 18. We are unfortunately unable to see Elite or Professional athletes in the Rheumatology clinic and would encourage you to see a sports medicine specialist.

Common signs include persistent joint pain or swelling, morning stiffness lasting more than 30 minutes, unexplained fatigue, skin rashes alongside joint symptoms, anaemia or a family history of autoimmune disease.

Treatment typically involves a combination of disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drugs (DMARDs) such as methotrexate, biologic therapies for more severe cases, and anti-inflammatory medications to manage pain and swelling. Lifestyle changes including exercise and a healthy diet also play an important role.

A referral is not required to see our Rheumatologist for full assessment.