Inflammatory Arthritis

Rheumatology is an area of medicine that specialises in the diagnosis and management of conditions which can commonly affect the immune system, otherwise known as autoimmune conditions. These conditions are often associated with joint pain, swelling and stiffness.

Physiotherapy can play a large part in the management of these conditions and its associated problems. Physiotherapists can help you maintain function and strength in your joints and muscles, and provide support for pain management.

Tyneside Integrated Musculoskeletal Service accepts referrals from the Rheumatology Services in Gateshead and Newcastle for patients living in Gateshead and Newcastle diagnosed with rheumatological conditions. We have a close working relationship with the secondary care rheumatology team to help provide the best possible care for people with rheumatological conditions in order to maintain their quality of life.

There are a range of risk factors associated with musculoskeletal and rheumatic conditions, these include: smoking, excess weight, inactivity, some work-related activities, genetic factors and increasing age. For help with these risk factors see out Wellbeing page.

We have provided links below to a range of self help and support information to help you manage you rheumatologiocal condition.

There are a range of charities and societies who provide information, help and support for people who suffer from arthritis. These include The National Rheumatoid Arthritis Society, Versus Arthritis, The Hypermobility Syndromes Association and the National Axial Spondyloarthritis Society

For information on specific conditions we have provided links to a range of resources.

What to do if you are experiencing a flare-up of an existing inflammatory condition.

If you under the care of a Rheumatology Consultant in Gateshead and Newcastle you can get help and advice on what to do by contacting the Rheumatology Advice Line.
If you are a Gateshead patient contact 0191 445 5240 (9am -12 noon Mon- Fri excluding bank holidays).
If you are a Newcastle patient contact 0191 213 7967 (Option 3).

What to do if you are concerned you may have an inflammatory condition.

If you are concerned that your symptoms are due to an undiagnosed inflammatory condition it is important that you seek an early diagnosis. Contact you General Practitioner who will be able to help you with diagnosis and treatment. The National Axial Spondylarthropathy Society have a useful symptom checker which can help you prepare.