Arthritis Today - October 2005

Issue 130

Arthritis Today Issue 130 CoverSpotlight on science

Dr Hector Chinoy and Dr Tony Day explain their work in an ongoing series of questions and answers with arc -funded researchers.

Arthritis and race – breaking down barriers

Many people from ethnic minority backgrounds who have arthritis fall through the healthcare net, often with devastating results. Jane Tadman reports on how cultural differences can get in the way of effective treatment, and what arc is trying to do about it.

Can spinal surgery help low back pain sufferers?

There are conflicting views about whether severe back pain can be improved by certain types of surgery, or whether it's better to leave the back to heal by itself. Jane Tadman looks at the pros and cons.

From angels to academics

Nurses who want to do arthritis research are finding encouragement in a fledgling academic unit in Leeds. Jane Tadman reports.

Learning about lupus

Researchers at Imperial College's rheumatology section at Hammersmith Hospital are committed to unravelling the complex origins of lupus, hoping that greater knowledge will lead to more effective treatment. Jane Tadman reports.