Biopsychosocial

• What is reflexology?

  Massage that involves applying different amounts of pressure to hands, feet & ears

  Based on theory that these areas are connected to other organs/systems & pressure causes relaxation
• What is the tole of the drug counselling clinic?

  Offer assessment of current condition

  Expert medication management

  Educate patients about their medication (+ side effects)

  Health & wellbeing checks
• What is the role of a rheumatologist?

  Investigate, diagnose, manage & rehabilitate patients with MSK disorders
• What is the purpose of a questionnaire for national audit?

  Data collection to help local units to improve quality of care they deliver
• Why do some patients use turmeric in RA?

  Active chemical = curcumin

  Anti-inflammatory & antioxidant effects

  CAM = not prescribed
• How can RA affect daily life?

  Immunosuppressant meds - make patients more vulnerable to other diseases/infections

  Chronic fatigue, poor sleep, stiffness -> depression

  Effect on mental health - not being able to do as much
• Why do some patients use cod liver oil for RA?

  Rich source of omega 3 fatty acids

  Blocks inflammatory cytokines & prostaglandins

  Omega 3s converted into resolvins (anti-inflammatory chemicals)
• What are the NICE guidelines for patients newly diagnosed with RA?

  Combination of DMARDs + short-term glucocorticoids as first line treatment (ideally within 3 months of onset of persistent symptoms)