Meet the team
The sooner a patient sees a podiatrist the better the outcome is, explains podiatrist Christopher Joyce
People with all kinds of arthritis may see a podiatrist at any stage of their condition and are likely to have multiple contacts with a podiatrist over the course of their lifetime. Podiatrists see all forms of inflammatory arthritis and other rheumatic conditions at all stages, and have a board and varied input.
Hand therapists are invaluable for people with inflammatory arthritis, outlines Christy Fowler
Hand therapists are speciality trained occupational therapists and physiotherapists. They are involved in the management of hand injuries and disorders using exercise, splints, wound care and education. Advance practice hand therapists may also diagnose and treat common hand disorders with injections and interpretation of X-rays. When it comes to arthritis in particular, hand therapists form an integral part of the rheumatology team.
The role of the occupational therapist is busy and rewarding, says Aisling McCartney
Occupational therapists improve people’s ability to complete everyday tasks when they are having difficulties due to health conditions and ageing. Their aim is to help people better their ability to function as independently as possible so they can participate in activities that are important to them. An occupational therapist will identify and eliminate barriers to independence (for example preparing food and/or going to work) so people can participate in normal daily life.
Dr Robin Munro discusses the varied role of the consultant rheumatologist
When I first became a consultant rheumatologist over 20 years ago, my hospital had 12 beds dedicated to people hospitalised with inflammatory joint diseases, and they were always full. Thanks to huge advances in treatments and a move to diagnose and treat people as fast as possible, there is currently only one patient in my hospital due to inflammatory joint disease.
The specialist rheumatology nurse is a central team player in the management of people with arthritis, highlights Sandra Robinson
Each member of the rheumatology team has a part to play. Like cogs on a wheel, if one is missing the wheel doesn’t turn. The specialist rheumatology nurse has a central role as we are usually the first point of contact if a patient needs information or support.
Specialist rheumatology nurses provide advice to patients about their condition, drugs, treatments, diet, exercise, wellness and self-management.
