Patient Information
Rheumatic Conditions
Information about some of the rheumatic and musculoskeletal conditions managed by our rheumatologists.
Rheumatology Care
Understanding rheumatic conditions
Rheumatic conditions can affect the joints, muscles, bones and immune system. Our rheumatologists assess and manage a broad range of inflammatory, autoimmune and musculoskeletal conditions.
Select a condition below to learn more.
What is rheumatoid arthritis?
Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune condition in which the immune system attacks the lining of the joints, causing inflammation. It most often affects the small joints of the hands and feet, usually on both sides of the body.
Common symptoms may include:
- Painful, swollen joints
- Morning stiffness lasting more than 30 minutes
- Tiredness
When to see a rheumatologist
Specialist assessment is helpful if you have ongoing joint swelling or stiffness. Early diagnosis and treatment can help protect the joints.
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What is psoriatic arthritis?
Psoriatic arthritis is an inflammatory arthritis that can occur in people with psoriasis, a skin condition. It can affect the joints, the spine and the places where tendons attach to bone.
Common symptoms may include:
- Joint pain and swelling
- Swelling of a whole finger or toe
- Nail changes
When to see a rheumatologist
See a rheumatologist if you have psoriasis and develop joint pain, swelling or stiffness.
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What is axial spondyloarthritis?
Axial spondyloarthritis is a type of inflammatory arthritis that mainly affects the spine and the joints of the pelvis. Ankylosing spondylitis is one form of this condition.
Common symptoms may include:
- Long-lasting back pain that is worse with rest
- Stiffness in the morning that eases with movement
- Pain in the buttocks
When to see a rheumatologist
Assessment may be useful if you have had back pain and stiffness for more than three months, particularly if it began before the age of 45.
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What is polymyalgia rheumatica?
Polymyalgia rheumatica is an inflammatory condition that causes pain and stiffness in the muscles around the shoulders and hips. It mainly affects people over the age of 50.
Common symptoms may include:
- Pain and stiffness in the shoulders, neck or hips
- Stiffness that is worst in the morning
- Tiredness or feeling generally unwell
When to see a rheumatologist
Your GP may refer you if the diagnosis is uncertain or if symptoms are difficult to manage.
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What is osteoarthritis?
Osteoarthritis is a common condition that affects the whole joint, including the cartilage, bone and surrounding tissues. It most often affects the knees, hips, hands and spine.
Common symptoms may include:
- Joint pain, often worse with activity
- Stiffness after rest
- Reduced movement in the joint
When to see a rheumatologist
A rheumatologist can help if the diagnosis is unclear or if there may be another type of arthritis involved.
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What is gout?
Gout is a type of arthritis caused by crystals of uric acid forming in and around the joints. It often causes sudden attacks of severe pain, commonly in the big toe.
Common symptoms may include:
- Sudden, intense joint pain
- Redness, heat and swelling
- Attacks that come and go
When to see a rheumatologist
Specialist care may help if attacks are frequent, difficult to control, or affect several joints.
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What is lupus?
Lupus is an autoimmune condition in which the immune system can cause inflammation in many parts of the body, including the joints, skin, kidneys and blood. Symptoms can vary widely between people.
Common symptoms may include:
- Joint pain
- Skin rashes, often worse with sun exposure
- Tiredness and fevers
When to see a rheumatologist
Lupus is usually diagnosed and managed with the help of a rheumatologist, working together with your GP.
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What is scleroderma?
Scleroderma is an autoimmune condition that causes thickening and hardening of the skin. In systemic sclerosis it can also affect blood vessels and internal organs.
Common symptoms may include:
- Thickened or tight skin
- Fingers changing colour in the cold (Raynaud's)
- Heartburn or difficulty swallowing
When to see a rheumatologist
Specialist assessment and regular monitoring are important for people with suspected or confirmed scleroderma.
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What is fibromyalgia?
Fibromyalgia is a long-term condition that causes widespread pain and tenderness. It is thought to relate to how the nervous system processes pain, rather than to damage or inflammation in the joints.
Common symptoms may include:
- Widespread pain
- Tiredness and poor sleep
- Difficulty with concentration or memory
When to see a rheumatologist
A rheumatologist can help confirm the diagnosis and check for other conditions that may cause similar symptoms.
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What is Sjögren's syndrome?
Sjögren's syndrome is an autoimmune condition that mainly affects the glands that produce tears and saliva. It can also affect the joints and other parts of the body.
Common symptoms may include:
- Dry eyes
- Dry mouth
- Joint pain and tiredness
When to see a rheumatologist
Assessment may be useful if you have persistent dryness of the eyes or mouth, especially with joint symptoms.
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What is inflammatory myositis?
Inflammatory myositis is a group of rare autoimmune conditions that cause inflammation of the muscles, leading to weakness. Some forms can also affect the skin, lungs or other organs.
Common symptoms may include:
- Muscle weakness, often in the thighs and shoulders
- Difficulty climbing stairs or lifting
- Skin rash in some types
When to see a rheumatologist
Prompt specialist assessment is recommended for unexplained muscle weakness.
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What is vasculitis?
Vasculitis is inflammation of blood vessels. Giant cell arteritis (GCA) is a specific type of vasculitis that commonly affects arteries in the head and neck.
Key facts about giant cell arteritis (GCA)
- It mainly affects adults over 50.
- The most common symptom is a new, severe headache, usually around the temples.
- Other symptoms include jaw pain when chewing, scalp tenderness and vision problems.
When to seek urgent care
Seek immediate medical attention if you experience sudden vision changes, a new severe headache or jaw pain when chewing, especially if you are over 50.
Giant cell arteritis can cause permanent vision loss if not treated promptly.
Learn moreExternal patient resource · Arthritis Australia
The information provided on this website is general in nature and is not intended to replace individual medical advice. Please speak with your GP or specialist about your individual circumstances.
Other Conditions
Can't find your condition?
Our rheumatologists manage a broad range of rheumatic and autoimmune conditions. The list above is not exhaustive.
If you are unsure whether our clinic is appropriate for your condition, please speak with your GP or contact our reception team.