Rheumatology

Conditions of the joints, muscles and bones

Diagnosis and treatment of arthritis and other musculoskeletal conditions, which vary from aches and sprains to complex inflammatory disorders

About rheumatology

Do you have regular aches and pains, or suffer from stiff shoulders, back pain or swollen knees? There are over 200 types of rheumatic and arthritic conditions affecting joints, bones, muscles and tendons.

Our leading consultant rheumatologists cover everything from knee discomfort to chronic conditions such as spondylitis, rheumatoid and metabolic bone disease. Whatever your condition, early diagnosis and treatment can greatly improve your symptoms. We have the latest technology to aid this, such as CT and extremity MRI scanners, which give clear pictures of muscles, ligaments and tendons.

We also have DEXA scanners to help with the diagnosis and management of osteoporosis. Many general rheumatic conditions, including rheumatoid arthritis and lupus, can now be brought under control if diagnosed and treated early. Conditions such as lower back pain and knee arthritis can also be successfully treated.

Our rheumatology expertise

Our team of consultant rheumatologists work closely with orthopaedic surgeons and physiotherapists to treat a range of rheumatic conditions.

  • Steroid injections for joint pain

    Need to know

    Joint pain is usually caused by inflammation or conditions such as bursitis. Steroid injections help reduce inflammation to reduce pain in that area. It is most common to inject the steroid into your joints, such as ankles, elbows, hips, knees, shoulders, spine or wrists. Sometimes, even the small joints...

  • Blood tests for lupus

    Need to know

    Lupus displays many different symptoms depending on the person diagnosed and which part of the body it impacts. There's no cure, but symptoms can improve if treatment starts early. Anti-nuclear antibody (ANA test) or Anti-DNA tests can provide an early indication for the presence of lupus, although...

  • Ankylosing spondylitis

    Need to know

    Ankylosing spondylitis (AS) is a long-term condition that causes inflammation in the spine and other areas. It is more common in men, and mostly begins during your teens or early adulthood. It tends to develop gradually and symptoms, including a stiff or painful back, may come and go. It's not known...

  • Hughes syndrome

    Need to know

    Hughes syndrome or antiphospholipid syndrome is an immune system disorder that can lead to an increased risk of developing the following: blood clots in the leg a clot in an artery which can cause a stroke or heart attack blood clots in the brain, leading to problems with balance, mobility,...

  • Lupus

    Need to know

    Lupus is a disease of the immune system where a wide variety of antibodies are produced, leading to inflammation in the joints and skin. Lupus may begin aggressively as an acute illness or might be undiagnosed for years. It can also appear as a transient disease. Earlier diagnosis and advancements in...

  • Rheumatoid arthritis

    Need to know

    Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disease that causes pain, swelling and stiffness in multiple joints in your body. The symptoms usually affect your hands, feet and wrists. It is important that rheumatoid arthritis is diagnosed early so that effective treatment can be given as soon as possible.

  • Gout and pseudogout

    Need to know

    Gout is the most common type of inflammatory arthritis, caused by crystal deposits in your joint. Pseudogout is caused by a different type of crystal deposit. Both can cause severe, sudden joint pain especially at the base of your big toe. Pain usually comes on very quickly. Future damage to joints can...

Our rheumatology consultants

Our experienced consultant rheumatologists specialise in the early detection and latest treatment for all rheumatological conditions.
ur experienced consultant rheumatologists specialise in the early detection and latest treatment for all rheumatological conditions.
Our experienced consultant rheumatologists specialise in the early detection and latest treatment for all rheumatological conditions.

Our locations

Across the HCA UK network we you'll be looked after by a team of leading rheumatologists with access to the latest technology to help diagnose and manage a range of rheumatology conditions.

London Bridge Hospital and River Thames

London Rheumatology Centre

At the London Rheumatology Centre, we have the expertise and technology to give you the best care for a range of rheumatic conditions. With a world-wide reputation for excellence and consultant rheumatologists from London's top teaching hospitals, you'll get quick diagnosis and access to treatment.

Book an appointment

Our team can help with any enquiries or you can make an appointment with one of our experienced consultants.

Call us today

020 7079 4344
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