Conditions Treated
Ankylosing Spondylitis
Ankylosing Spondylitis – Versus Arthritis
An inflammatory disorder affecting mainly the spine and occasionally joints elsewhere. It is more common in men.
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Carpal tunnel syndrome – Versus Arthritis
Pain and tingling in the hand, wrist and forearm especially at night-time, often interfering with sleep pattern.
Fibromyalgia
Fibromyalgia – Versus Arthritis
Widespread joint and muscle pain associated with fatigue and sleep disturbance.
Giant cell Arteritis
Giant cell arteritis (GCA) – Versus Arthritis
A rare inflammatory disorder affecting the large blood vessels, sometimes leading to severe headache and visual disturbance.
Gout
A common disorder due to a build-up of monosodium urate which is deposited in the lining of joints and tendons. It can cause severe pain and swelling very acutely. Sometimes linked with drug therapy for other conditions.
Hypermobility Syndromes
Joint hypermobility syndromes – Versus Arthritis
A rare connective tissue disorder leading to laxity of joints and soft tissues. May be associated with widespread aches and pains.
Lupus
Lupus (SLE) – Versus Arthritis
Inflammatory disorder affecting various body tissues including joints, skin and occasionally internal organs. Much commoner in women.
Osteoarthritis
Osteoarthritis – Versus Arthritis
The commonest form of arthritis – affects predominantly the weight-bearing joints in the body resulting in a slow degenerative process.
Palindromic Rheumatism
Palindromic rheumatism – Versus Arthritis
A form of inflammatory arthritis which has a typical flitting pattern.
Polymyalgia Rheumatica (PMR)
Polymyalgia rheumatica (PMR) – Versus Arthritis
An inflammatory disorder affecting the muscles of the shoulder and thigh girdle. Usually occurs in patients over 50. Sometimes associated with temporal artery inflammation. Responds very well to steroid therapy.
Psoriatic Arthritis
Psoriatic arthritis – Versus Arthritis
This is a serious form of joint inflammation which affects patients with psoriasis or a family history of psoriasis.
Raynaud’s Phenomenon
Raynaud's phenomenon – Versus Arthritis
This is a condition with spasm of the blood vessels carrying blood to the peripheries of the hands and feet. It causes colour changes and tingling. Rarely associated with underlying connective tissue disorders.
Reactive Arthritis
Reactive arthritis – Versus Arthritis
A rare inflammatory form of arthritis which can come on after a relatively mild infectious process. Often is self-limiting and does not require long-term treatment usually.
Rheumatoid Arthritis
Rheumatoid arthritis – Versus Arthritis
This severe form of inflammation arthritis often targets the small joints of the hands and feet initially and can be symmetrical in distribution. It requires treatment with drugs to suppress the immune response.
Systemic Sclerosis (Scleroderma)
Systemic sclerosis (scleroderma) – Versus Arthritis
This is a rare connective tissue disorder which can manifest in various ways and involve several organs including skin, lungs, kidney. It requires drugs to suppress the immune response.
Sjögren’s Syndrome
Sjögren's syndrome – Versus Arthritis
Dry eyes, dry mouth and the presence of specific antibodies in the blood. A mild condition usually but can be associated with rheumatoid arthritis.
Many patients come to clinic without a clear diagnosis. Whether you’re experiencing:
Persistent joint pain or stiffness
Muscle aches or fatigue
Swollen joints or unexplained symptoms
Dr Meenagh can help identify the cause and advise on the best course of action.