Nine years to diagnosis: the challenge of spotting inflammatory arthritis and the role of first contact physiotherapists

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Joint pain is often dismissed as ageing, overuse or a minor injury. But for some people it is the first sign of inflammatory arthritis, a group of immune-driven conditions that can damage joints and other organs if not treated promptly.

Inflammatory arthritis can take years to diagnose and receive treatment, with some forms taking an average of nine years. During that time, persistent inflammation can lead to irreversible joint damage, fatigue and reduced mobility.