What should I do after an arthritis diagnosis?
Learn which type you have, keep gentle daily movement, write questions for your GP or rheumatology appointment, and track symptoms. Then explore pain relief, exercise, diet and benefits if daily living is limited. Educational guidance, not a diagnosis.
Last updated 2026-09-29. This is general information, not a substitute for personalised medical advice.
Frequently asked questions
Iâve just been diagnosed â what should I do first?
Get a copy of your diagnosis letter, confirm exactly which type of arthritis you have, write down your top 3 questions, and book a follow-up so you have someone to ask as new questions come up. Donât rush major treatment decisions in the first week.
Will I become disabled?
Most people with arthritis stay independent throughout their lives with the right treatment. Outcomes have improved dramatically over the last 20 years thanks to earlier diagnosis, better medications, and stronger evidence for exercise and self-management.
Should I stop exercising?
No â almost the opposite. Appropriate exercise is one of the most effective treatments for arthritis. Start gently (walking, swimming, tai chi), build slowly, and work with a physiotherapist if youâre unsure where to begin.
Is arthritis hereditary?
Genetics influences risk for several types of arthritis (especially rheumatoid and ankylosing spondylitis), but isnât the whole story. Lifestyle, weight, joint injuries and environment all play significant roles.
Can I still work?
Yes â most people with arthritis continue working. You have legal protection under the Equality Act 2010, including the right to reasonable adjustments. See our work-and-arthritis guide for details.
Do I need to change my diet?
A Mediterranean-style diet has the strongest evidence for arthritis â plenty of vegetables, oily fish, olive oil, nuts and whole grains, with less red meat and processed food. There is no single magic food, but the overall pattern matters.
What about supplements?
Some supplements (omega-3, turmeric/curcumin, vitamin D if deficient) have modest evidence. Glucosamine and chondroitin have mixed results. Always tell your prescriber before starting â several interact with arthritis medications.
When should I call my team between appointments?
Contact them for: a sudden severe flare; signs of infection (fever, redness, swelling); new neurological symptoms (weakness, numbness); concerning medication side effects; or major mental health distress. Donât wait if something feels wrong.
Can I claim any benefits?
If arthritis significantly affects daily living or mobility, you may qualify for Personal Independence Payment (PIP). The claim is based on functional impact, not diagnosis. See our PIP guide for the step-by-step process.
How do I find other people with arthritis?
Our free Connect Groups are facilitated peer communities â online and in-person, by condition or life stage. Sharing the experience with people who get it makes a real difference to wellbeing and outcomes.