Rheumatology

In rheumatology we deal with problems that affect the loco motor system ie problems with joints principally, also ligaments, tendons and bones. Although many conditions are easily identified and dealt with, others may include very sensitive concerns, sometimes causing significant distress to families and young people so our aim is to offer support and advice in a friendly and compassionate way; carefully explaining what may be the problem and how to deal with it. We are happy to answer all your questions.

Since the locomotor system can be affected in just about every other condition,  we work very closely with  many other healthcare professionals in all the specialties such as allergy, ophthalmology, dermatology, orthopaedics, dieticians, child psychologists and many others. We know your time is valuable and will try to arrange all your care in a timely way to avoid unnecessary hospital trips and time lost from school.

All the Paediatric doctors at JPUH have general paediatric expertise and see children with joint problems. We see children with problems such as;

• Juvenile idiopathic arthritis
• Reactive arthritis in childhood
• Hypermobility syndrome
• Mechanical pains in limbs and spine
• Non-specific limb/ back pains
• We work closely with the physiotherapy, orthopaedic and psychology teams and are particularly keen to reduce the numbers of older children with chronic pain and inflammation with support and education about dealing with these issues at an earlier stage.

We also link in with the specialist paediatric rheumatology service at NNUH, community paediatricians, also children’s services and education and adult rheumatology services in the teenage years. 

What services are provided?

• Monthly paediatric rheumatology clinic at Newberry Child Development Centre in Gorleston (JPUH NHS Trust)
• Specialist paediatric physiotherapy with dedicated sessions, including hydrotherapy and orthotics
• In-patient/ day-case services for children requiring iv steroids
• In-patient/ day care services for children requiring intra-articular steroid injections (via fast-track referral to NNUH)
• Specialist paediatric ophthalmology services for early detection of arthritis associated inflammatory eye-disease
• Specialist radiologist diagnostics including ultra-sound and MRI scanning
• Specialist nursing support for children on disease-modifying or biologic drugs and/or those requiring regular blood tests
• Specialist psychology support for child and family where emotional issues affect symptoms and treatment
• Tertiary support from consultant paediatric rheumatologist( via referral to NNUH)
• Transition clinic for teenagers moving towards adult services.

How can I get a referral?

Patients under 16 years of age can be referred by their GP or any other hospital doctor who sees them for any other medical needs.

What are the opening times?

General and rheumatology clinics:

Tuesday 14:00:00-17:00

Wednesday 14:00-17:00

Thursday 14.00-17.00

Paediatric Rheumatology clinics: 4^th Wednesday every month at Newberry Child Development Centre.