GPs have a vital role in the diagnosis of arthritis and helping people manage their symptoms, explains Dr Giles Hazan

The GP is the first port of call for many people with musculoskeletal problems. In fact, this area accounts for up to 20% of all people we see in the surgery. The most common issues are back pain and arthritis. Inflammatory forms of arthritis are not seen as frequently as osteoarthritis, but are by no means rare.

GPs are gatekeepers of the patient’s journey, whichever the form of arthritis; getting the start of the journey right is key to long-term health and wellbeing.

Although we have to keep our appointments relatively short, GPs have a unique chance to build relationships with patients over a lifetime. Some patients may have found it difficult to see their GP during COVID-19, but it is essential to maintain contact. Many practices have adapted by offering more appointments virtually or over the phone so GPs can monitor your condition and health and make sure you’re getting the best possible treatment.

Dr Giles Hazan is a GP with an Extended Role in MSK Medicine at Sussex Partnership Foundation Trust

Osteoarthritis

Like cardiovascular disease or diabetes, osteoarthritis is a long-term condition but unfortunately it hasn’t been given the same level of attention despite the enormous impact it can have on people’s lives. This is slowly changing, however, and GPs make a fundamental difference.

Firstly, they give people up to date information. Many people with arthritis feel disempowered, vulnerable and have old fashioned – incorrect – views of osteoarthritis being an inevitable process of “wear and tear” and something that just has to be accepted. But we are learning more about osteoarthritis and its treatment all the time and GPs can relay useful new information to patients.

GPs signpost resources, helping people reach accurate information and regional peer support. Versus Arthritis and other charities have a huge amount to offer. Information and support can be accessed online, posted or discussed on the phone. Helplines are often staffed by people affected by arthritis themselves so understand the issues first-hand.

Arthritis charities usually have local groups who get together to discuss symptoms, meet like-minded people, fundraise, sometimes even enjoying days out. When physical meet-ups are more difficult, there are virtual ways of connecting, through online groups and forums such as the Versus Arthritis Online Community. There is a whole world waiting to be uncovered.

Management of symptoms today recognises a “wear, flare and repair” model of osteoarthritis with joints constantly going through a repair process that can be supported and encouraged by taking an active as opposed to a passive approach. In the past people were told to avoid being physically active, but now we know that joints need to be active to stimulate the repair process and reduce pain. Exercise also stabilises joints by supporting the muscles around them, which helps people become less frail and have fewer falls.

We also aim to start a dialogue about lifestyle changes with people with arthritis. Obesity is a risk factor for osteoarthritis, but not just the knee and hip joints – it even affects hand osteoarthritis. GPs can help people find meaningful ways to manage weight. There are multiple wins to be had from this one intervention as it can reduce risk of diabetes, heart disease and high blood pressure that often co-exist with osteoarthritis. But it is easier said than done and being part of a programme (losing weight with other people) can make all the difference.

Inflammatory arthritis

The role of the GP is very important if a person attends clinic with what could be signs or symptoms of inflammatory arthritis. Diagnosed and successfully treated within three months of the onset of symptoms, a patient is significantly more likely to achieve remission and enjoy a healthy life. If symptoms are ignored or misdiagnosed, the picture is vastly different, with a greater chance of joint deformity and chronic pain.

While GPs are getting better at recognising the early signs of inflammatory arthritis and acting quickly in terms of referral to rheumatology, the evidence suggests there is still work to be done here.

People with rheumatoid arthritis should be reviewed by their GP every year, which enables us to support the individual as with any long-term condition. It also recognises the significant health problems sometimes seen alongside rheumatoid arthritis, which include depression, anxiety and the early signs of heart disease.

The bottom line

Arthritis is too often dismissed as one of those things you have to live with. This can prevent people from asking for help because they feel their pain is not important or taken seriously. But you do not have to face arthritis alone. With support from charities and volunteers, healthcare professionals on the frontline are improving diagnosis, treatment and management of arthritis. We are here to help.

If you need to talk to someone about your arthritis symptoms or would like to find out about local support, contact Versus Arthritis, visit www.versusarthritis.org or tel 0800 520 0520.

PS Did you know that Arthritis Digest Magazine is labelled the best UK Arthritis blog from thousands of blogs on the web ranked by traffic, social media followers, domain authority & freshness?