The most common type of pain that people experience is usually related to age or injuries. This pain often comes from wear and tear on our joints or spine. Most people don’t need to see a rheumatologist for these issues. General practitioners (GPs) and physical therapists are often very good at providing information, advice, and treatment options.
Treatments usually focus on lifestyle changes, like losing weight and improving diet. Specific exercises can also help support the affected areas. Simple pain relief, such as anti-inflammatories or paracetamol, can be useful during flare-ups. Sometimes, doctors may recommend steroid injections, but their benefits are not as clear for this type of pain. However, these injections are generally considered safe, and some people find them helpful for temporary relief. This can allow them to focus on longer-term physical therapy.
In some cases, surgery might be necessary if other treatments do not work. As rheumatologists, our role is often to check for any underlying inflammatory arthritis if referred by the GP as part of personalised care.