British Society for Rheumatology launches guideline on pain management in people with inflammatory arthritis.
NASS has endorsed the new British Society for Rheumatology guideline on pain management in people with inflammatory arthritis.
Pain is one of the symptoms that can have the greatest impact on people living with axial spondyloarthritis. This new guideline provides evidence-based recommendations on how pain should be assessed and managed, recognising that pain may be influenced by inflammation, sleep, fatigue, mental wellbeing and other factors.
The recommendations support a holistic approach to care and highlight the role of exercise, physical activity, education, psychological support and effective management of disease activity as part of a personalised pain management plan.
Key messages include:
- Pain should be assessed at every inflammatory arthritis‑related appointment.
- Optimising disease control is essential, but pain often has multiple drivers.
- Non‑pharmacological approaches such as exercise, education and psychological support are central to effective pain management.
- Long‑term use of opioids and neuromodulators for inflammatory arthritis pain should be avoided, where possible.
NASS welcomes the publication of this guideline and its focus on improving pain care and quality of life for people living with inflammatory arthritis.
Read more about the guideline, check out the one page summary and listen to the podcast
Watch a video featuring the authors of the new guideline discussing:
- Why the guideline was needed
- The main principles clinicians should keep in mind when treating patients with inflammatory arthritis
- The impact of the guideline for people living with axial SpA
Want to hear more? Dr Nick Shenker will be joining us at our AGM this year to talk through what the guidelines mean for people with axial SpA.
To join us, join as a member or renew your expired membership by 31 July 2026.