Guide to diagnosis
Have you been recently diagnosed with arthritis? Find out about arthritis and treatments and the road ahead in our guide to diagnosis and how lifestyle changes can help you feel more in control.
Newly diagnosed? We're with you all the way
When you've just been diagnosed with arthritis, you can feel lost and alone. Like you're the only person in the world. You may have been waiting for months even years for answers but we're with you all the way.
How to adapt after a diagnosis
Being diagnosed with arthritis is likely to stir up a lot of emotions. You may be shocked, anxious or even overwhelmed but we're here to support you all the way: not only with doctor's appointments, medication, lifestyle changes and managing your symptoms but supporting you to explore your options.
Common arthritis conditions
A helpful guide to the types of healthcare professionals you might see as you explore the many treatment options available to you and the journey ahead.
Who will treat you?We know that visiting the doctors can be a little intimidating at times. Here are some tips on getting the most out of your next doctor’s appointment.
Prepare for an appointmentWith our Arthritis Tracker app, you can record your daily symptoms in seconds and see a simple summary of your sore joints, medication, energy levels and more.
Track my arthritis symptoms
Living with arthritis: How to manage your arthritis symptoms
Pain can be a major arthritis symptom. You may have good days and bad days, flare ups and setbacks. But understanding why we feel pain can be useful and there are ways to manage long-term pain, including treatments, medication and self care.
Ask the doctor Q&A: Newly diagnosed questions and answers
Some people can feel overwhelmed when they’re newly diagnosed with arthritis or a musculoskeletal condition. We spoke to GP, Dr Natasha Usher, about the questions she’s frequently asked by patients who’ve been recently diagnosed.
A keen runner, Jon was diagnosed with osteoarthritis of the knees and is now leading an almost pain-free life by strength training and staying active.
Read Jon's storyDiagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis in 2020, Mia's diagnosis came completely out of the blue. She offers helpful advice based on her lived experience.
Read Mia's story
Is there a cure for arthritis?
We have invested over £550m into arthritis research over the last few decades, making us one of the largest global funders. Our research breakthroughs have changed the lives of millions of people worldwide through the discovery of new treatments and approaches to care.
How the Arthritis UK community can help you
Did you know Arthritis UK has groups, activities and events across the UK? Find out what’s going on where you are and how you can get help and support close to home.
What's on in your areaChat online to other people who are living with arthritis just like you in our community forum where you can share your experience and find new friends.
Visit our community forumOur helpline is open 9am to 5pm Monday to Friday (excluding bank holidays). We will offer you information, advice and emotional support around your diagnosis.
Call our helpline
Order our FREE information booklets
From information about your condition to treatments, surgery, exercise and keeping well, we have a range of information booklets packed full of useful tips and advice that are FREE to download or order by post in our shop. Plus shipping is free too.
Get Inspire magazine delivered to your door for just £3 a month
Created specially for people living with arthritis, every edition of Inspire magazine is packed with expert, in-depth articles and features, covering what matters most to you — all for just £3 a month.