Over ten million people in the UK live with arthritis or other conditions that affect their joints. Initially, they may be prescribed painkillers such as paracetamols or anti-inflammatories. Longer-term, however, they could well need the additional support of a Rheumatologist in London.
What is a Rheumatologist?
Rheumatologists are specialists who help people manage their arthritis as well as other soft-tissue problems such as musculoskeletal pain and inflammatory conditions. They go beyond what a regular GP is able to offer.
As well as diagnosing conditions, they will arrange for specific tests and put in place treatment plans that look at a person’s health. For example, a person’s diet can impact their condition. This means that, while no diet can cure arthritis, adding oily fish, pulses, and olive oil into a diet can lessen symptoms.
The Benefits of a Rheumatologist
There are any number of benefits that come from seeing a Rheumatologist. They include:
- Being seen quicker (referrals on the NHS can take time)
- Accessing tests not available or hard to get on the NHS
- Receiving personalised, high-quality, support from a Specialist
- Treatment plans that look beyond treating the symptoms to improving quality of life
- Signposting to professional support, for example, physiotherapists or dieticians
Finding a Rheumatologist in London
For those living in the nation’s capital and suffering from arthritis, they don’t need a referral to see a Rheumatologist in London. You can make an appointment directly. They can arrange to see Dr Stephanie Barratt, for example, who has been a Consultant Rheumatologist for 17 years.
Dr Barratt is an expert on the treatment and prevention of some of the most common arthritic conditions. She also supports people with lesser-known conditions such as gout, improving the patient’s quality of life. To find out more visit https://drstephaniebarrett.com or call 020 7730 8508.
