Arthritis
There are lots of types of arthritis. Do not self-diagnose – see a GP if you’re worried.
Other types of arthritis
Arthritis causes pain, swelling and stiffness in your joints. This can make moving the joint difficult.
You can get arthritis in any joint, but joints commonly affected include those in your:
- wrists, hands and fingers
- ankles, feet and toes
- back and spine
- knees and hips
Your symptoms may sometimes suddenly get worse. This is known as a “flare-up” and can last several days.
Ask for an urgent GP appointment or get help from NHS 111 if:
- you have severe pain and swelling in just 1 joint that started suddenly
- your pain does not get better with painkillers, such as paracetamol
- the skin around your joint is red or hot (redness may be harder to see on brown and black skin)
- you have sore joints with a high or low temperature, or you feel hot, cold or shivery
- you have sore joints and conjunctivitis, or sore eyes and problems with your vision
- you have sore joints and pain when you pee, discharge from your penis or vagina, or a rash or sores on your genitals
Call 111 or get help from 111 online.
See a GP if:
- you have unexplained pain, swelling or stiffness in your joints that does not go away in a few days
Other ways to get help
You may be able to refer yourself for help and treatment, such as physiotherapy, from NHS community musculoskeletal (MSK) services without needing a referral from a GP.
A healthcare professional will ask you about your symptoms and medical history and check your joints.
You may be referred to a specialist (rheumatologist) if they think you might have rheumatoid arthritis or gout.
Tests you may have include:
- blood tests
- an X-ray or ultrasound scan
- a sample of fluid taken from one of your joints using a thin needle (to help confirm gout)
Find out more
There’s currently no cure for arthritis but there are treatments that can help you manage your symptoms.
Treatment will depend on the type of arthritis you have and how it’s affecting you. You’ll be under the care of a healthcare professional while having treatment.
Treatments for arthritis include:
- physiotherapy to help improve your strength and mobility
- occupational therapy to help with everyday tasks, such as washing, dressing and cooking
- medicines to help relieve symptoms, such as pain, swelling and inflammation, or reduce the activity of your immune system
- equipment to help with daily activities, such as walking aids, wheelchairs and mobility scooters
- complementary therapies, such as acupuncture, the Alexander technique and transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS)
- surgery if your symptoms are severe and other treatments have not helped
A team of healthcare professionals will give you the help and support you need.
Speak to your doctor if you have any questions or concerns about your treatment and managing your condition, or if you have any new symptoms.
Find out more
There are some things you can do to help ease the symptoms of arthritis.
Do
exercise regularly – low impact activities are best, such as swimming, walking, pilates and yoga
keep to a healthy weight – being overweight can put strain on your joints
Don't
do not smoke because it can make your symptoms worse
do not drink too much alcohol
