Rheumatoid arthritis is one of the most common inflammatory arthritis in the community. It is an autoimmune disease. Our immune system normally focuses on fighting bacteria and virus, but in rheumatoid arthritis, it goes the wrong direction resulting in inflammation of the lining of the joint capsule (synovitis). This inflamed tissue is highly destructive and results in permanent joint deformity.
Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) commonly affects the small joints of the hands and feet in a symmetrical pattern; however, the large joints such as elbows, shoulders, hips, knees and ankles can also be affected. It can also affect the neck, in particular the first two segments of the cervical spine, which often presents as upper neck pain.
Arthritis requires an Integrated Approach. We call this Connected Care. This approach has come about because our main objective has always been to treat the whole person, not just the site of pain. We achieve this by encouraging our specialists and allied health professionals to work together in connecting the treatment of our clients’ health issues where appropriate.
