With years of experience in managing complex cases of arthritis and musculoskeletal pain, the dedicated team at ArthritisCARE is committed to enhancing the quality of life for our patients.
Our state-of-the-art facility in Brisbane is purpose-built to ensure patient convenience and comfort, employing the latest technologies for effective arthritis treatment. Patients in Brisbane can trust us to deliver comprehensive care for their muscle, joint, and bone health, all at fair consultation fees that reflect the exceptional quality of service we are proud to provide.
We treat all types of arthritis
At ArthritisCARE, we have extensive experience in diagnosing and treating a broad range of arthritis:
Rheumatoid Arthritis, or RA, is an autoimmune arthritis. Your immune system attacks healthy cells within your body, resulting in swollen and inflamed joints and discomfort.
Ankylosing Spondylitis is a type of arthritis causing pain, stiffness and inflammation. It most commonly affects the spine, neck, back and pelvis.
Polymyalgia Rheumatica (PMR) causes inflammation to the larger joints in your body and the surrounding tissue. This causes all-over body stiffness, aches and musculoskeletal pain especially in your shoulder, neck and hips.
Osteoarthritis, or OA, affects the whole joint – the bone, cartilage, ligaments and muscles. It causes inflammation, pain, joint damage and deterioration of ligaments, most commonly in knees, hips, fingers and big toes.
Gout is a type of arthritis caused by a buildup of uric acid (a normal waste product of your body) in your joints. This leads to redness, inflammation and intense pain.
Scleroderma is a rare autoimmune disease that affects the connective tissues, causing them to become thick and hard. This condition can result in a range of symptoms, including skin tightening, joint pain and impacting other areas of the body such as the skin, blood vessels, and internal organs.
Systemic Lupus Erythematosus is the most common type of lupus (autoimmune systemic connective tissue diseases). SLE can affect multiple organs and systems in the body, causing inflammation and a wide range of symptoms.
Polymyositis is one of a group of rare inflammatory autoimmune diseases that primarily affects the muscles, causing muscle weakness, pain and difficulty with movement.
Sjogren’s Syndrome is an autoimmune disorder that primarily affects the glands responsible for producing tears and saliva, causing dry eyes and mouth. It may also cause fatigue, chewing or swallowing difficulties and swelling of the glands in your neck or face.
Fibromyalgia is a chronic illness, characterised by widespread musculoskeletal pain and fatigue. It is often more common in people who have inflammatory arthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, or after a viral illness or infection.
Haemochromatosis is a genetic disorder that leads to excessive iron accumulation in your organs, including the liver, heart, bones, joints and pancreas. This can cause fatigue, pain in your joints and abdomen and organ damage.
Spondyloarthritis can be classed as peripheral or ankylosing spondylitis. Peripheral spondyloarthritis mainly affects the arms and legs and includes four sub-categories.
What causes arthritis?
Arthritis is not one single disease, rather it is an umbrella term used to describe more than 100 conditions of the musculoskeletal system. Whilst the exact cause for arthritis remains unclear, it is thought that most forms are due to a malfunctioning immune system. This may be genetically inherited.
It is also widely believed that environmental factors play a role in the development of some types, such as osteoarthritis. These can be:
- Overweight and obesity put strain on joints.
- Activities and occupations that involve repetitive movements.
- Injuries or previous damage to a joint.
- Smoking.
- Sedentary lifestyle.
“Reactive arthritis” is caused by an infection and is more commonly seen in younger people.
What are the signs and symptoms of arthritis?
Although there are many different forms of arthritis, you will generally have one or more of these common arthritis symptoms:
- A painful joint, or joints,
- Joint inflammation or swelling,
- Warmth or redness to a joint
- Joint stiffness or reduced range of motion.
You may also experience:
- Fatigue
- Loss of weight
- Feeling generally unwell.
Experience Personalised Rheumatology Care That Puts Your Needs First
Who is at risk of developing arthritis?
Although the exact causes are unknown, scientists have identified various risk factors that may develop arthritis. These can be broken into modifiable and non-modifiable factors.
Non-modifiable risks:
These are factors that you cannot change or control:
- Age
- Gout is more common in men.
- Most forms of arthritis are more common in women.
- Genetics can increase your risk of developing certain types.
Modifiable factors
These are things you can change or control:
- Being overweight or obese
- Smoking
- Occupation or activities with repetitive motions
There are additional risk factors according to the type of arthritis, please read through our informative pages on each disease or contact us for more information.
How is arthritis diagnosed?
Our Rheumatologists use a combination of methods to evaluate your musculoskeletal health and form a diagnosis. We will ask for an in-depth medical history and conduct a thorough physical exam at your first appointment. We will then order any tests that may be needed to help form an accurate diagnosis.
Laboratory tests
Lab tests can include blood tests or joint fluid that can show inflammation, elevated uric acid levels or genetic markers of arthritis.
Imaging and scans
We may also order CT scans, X-rays or a MRI to provide clear pictures of your joints, bones and connective tissue.
How is arthritis treated?
Our goal is to relieve arthritis pain and inflammation, improve joint function and prevent joint damage. We employ a multi-faceted and holistic approach that enhances your overall health and quality of life.
Medications
You may be prescribed medications tailored to your specific type of arthritis, pain and symptoms. These can include:
- Pain relief medication such as paracetamol.
- Anti-inflammatory medicines such as NSAIDS, to reduce pain and inflammation.
- Disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDS).
- Fish oil supplements.
Non-medical therapy
We can also help with access to other healthcare providers, such as a physiotherapist or occupational therapist. They can help with physiotherapy and assistive devices that enhance joint mobility, strengthen muscles, ease arthritis pain and improve daily functioning.
Lifestyle modifications
Making positive lifestyle changes can significantly help manage arthritis pain, reduce joint pain and other common symptoms. Simple things such as an exercise program, joint protection techniques and healthy weight management can minimise pain and optimise joint health.
Surgery
In some severe cases, when conservative treatments are not sufficient, surgery may be recommended. Skilled surgeons can perform joint surgery, such as a joint replacement or arthroscopy, to relieve pain and restore joint function.
Can you prevent arthritis?
While arthritis cannot always be prevented, certain measures can reduce the risk of developing the condition. Our team provides education and support, such as:
- Advice on how to exercise regularly, especially if you have chronic pain.
- Eating a balanced diet.
- Weight loss to reduce the load and stress on weight bearing joints.
- Smoking cessation.
For individuals already living with arthritis, we offer support and guidance on coping strategies, self-care techniques, and resources for managing the condition effectively
Let ArthritisCARE lead your arthritis treatment and management
At ArthritisCARE, our dedicated team of seven Rheumatologists are committed to delivering personalised, holistic arthritis treatment in Brisbane. Through our comprehensive approach, we aim to provide pain relief and enhance your musculoskeletal health and function.
Where to find ArthritisCARE.
Contact us today and make an appointment for your personalised arthritis management plan.
- 24 Railway Terrace (Corner of Pound Street) Dutton Park QLD 4102
- (07) 3255 1066
- (07) 3255 1533
- admin@arthritiscare.com.au
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Monday to Friday: 8.00 am – 4.00 pm
Sat, Sun & Public Holidays: Closed
Frequently Asked Questions
Read through the common questions about treating arthritis below:
Some people may experience worsening arthritis symptoms and reduced range of motion with weather changes. However, it is now believed to be changes in the barometric pressures that cause the tissues inside your body to expand, putting pressure on the nerves responsible for pain signals.
- Highly processed foods
- Excessive amounts of Omega-6
- Refined-sugar and carbohydrates
- Fried Foods
- Excessive amounts of red meat
- Cheese and high-fat dairy
- Alcohol
Again, complications vary based on which form of arthritis you have. However some common complications include joint damage, decreased mobility, chronic pain and decreased quality of life.
Yes, imaging exams like X-Rays, MRIs and CTs can provide clear pictures of your bones and joints, allowing your Rheumatologist or general practitioner to assess any damage or indications of arthritis.
Some forms of arthritis can show up with a blood test, such as elevated uric acid can indicate the presence of gout. Your Rheumatologist can explain the need for blood tests and what they are looking for during your appointment.
While arthritis cannot always be prevented, maintaining a healthy lifestyle with regular exercise, a balanced diet, and avoiding joint injuries may help reduce the risk.
Managing arthritis involves a combination of medical care, pain medications, physical activity, joint protection, and self-care techniques. Seeking support from healthcare professionals and support groups can also help. ArthritisCARE has a great resource section that offers advice and support to help people living with arthritis.
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