Arthritis & Long-Term Conditions
Living with arthritis or a long-term musculoskeletal condition can affect your mobility, independence and quality of life. Understanding your condition can help you manage symptoms, remain active and make informed decisions about your treatment.
Below you’ll find information about some of the most common musculoskeletal conditions.
General Information About Arthritis
Arthritis is a term used to describe inflammation and degeneration of the joints. There are many different types, each affecting people in different ways.
Common topics include:
- Symptoms
- Diagnosis
- Treatment options
- Exercise advice
- Self-management
If you are experiencing persistent joint pain, stiffness or swelling, please speak to a healthcare professional for assessment and advice.
ESCAPE-pain Programme
ESCAPE-pain is an evidence-based programme combining education with exercise to help people living with persistent joint pain.
The programme aims to:
- Reduce pain
- Improve mobility
- Increase confidence
- Help you stay active
If you think you may benefit from an exercise and education programme, speak to your healthcare professional or physiotherapist.
Ankylosing Spondylitis
Ankylosing spondylitis is a long-term inflammatory condition that mainly affects the spine.
Common symptoms include:
- Back pain and stiffness
- Reduced spinal movement
- Fatigue
Regular exercise and early treatment can help manage symptoms.
If you have ongoing back pain and stiffness, particularly if symptoms are worse in the morning or improve with movement, seek medical advice.
Fibromyalgia
Fibromyalgia is a long-term condition causing widespread pain and increased sensitivity throughout the body.
Symptoms may include:
- Widespread pain
- Fatigue
- Poor sleep
- Problems with memory or concentration
Treatment often focuses on education, pacing activities, exercise and improving sleep.
If you experience persistent widespread pain or unexplained fatigue, speak to your healthcare professional for further assessment.
Knee Osteoarthritis
Knee osteoarthritis is one of the most common causes of knee pain.
Treatment may include:
- Exercise therapy
- Weight management
- Pain relief
- Physiotherapy
- Lifestyle advice
Many people successfully manage their symptoms without surgery.
If knee pain or stiffness is affecting your daily activities, arrange an assessment with a healthcare professional.
Osteoporosis
Osteoporosis causes bones to become weaker and more likely to fracture.
Maintaining bone health includes:
- Weight-bearing exercise
- Adequate calcium intake
- Vitamin D
- Falls prevention
- Appropriate treatment when required
If you are concerned about your bone health or are at increased risk of fractures, speak to your healthcare professional.
Polymyalgia Rheumatica
Polymyalgia rheumatica (PMR) is an inflammatory condition that commonly causes:
- Shoulder pain
- Hip pain
- Morning stiffness
Treatment usually involves medication prescribed by your healthcare professional.
If you develop new shoulder or hip pain with significant morning stiffness, seek medical advice promptly.
Rheumatoid Arthritis
Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune condition that causes inflammation within the joints.
Common symptoms include:
- Joint pain
- Swelling
- Morning stiffness
- Fatigue
Early diagnosis and treatment can help reduce joint damage and improve long-term outcomes.
If you have persistent painful, swollen or stiff joints, particularly in your hands or feet, arrange an assessment with a healthcare professional.
Final Advice
If you think you may have arthritis or another musculoskeletal condition, or if your symptoms are persistent, worsening or affecting your daily activities, we recommend arranging an assessment with your GP or healthcare professional. Early diagnosis and treatment can help improve long-term outcomes.
Resources
Fibromyalgia – Bristol, North Somerset and South Gloucestershire CCG
Osteoporosis – NHS
Polymyalgia rheumatica – NHS
