Arthritis. Why dont doctors believe me?

[Heatherjayne1972]

Been having pain in my fingers and toes for years Swollen joints and pain

So I see GP who said it was the weather! A different GP said it was my thyroid ( I have been on thyroid tablets for years) third GP sent me for X-rays /blood test- all clear so didn't want to take it further changed practice now GP no4 has said is just 'wear and tear ' not one of them has offered pain relief My finger is bent out of shape and another is swollen
Not sure where I go from here feel so fobbed off and in pain
Anyway Moan over- where next. New GP ? Go back and complain ?

Bumping for you

Can you get a referral or self refer to a hand therapist? Physio & Occupational Therapy have them.

Didn't know you could self refer
Is that a thing? What do they do?

You need a referral to Rheumatology.

I would make another appointment with the GP and insist ask to be referred.

It really is worth pushing for the referral, I have permanant damage in my right hand and wrist due to delays in getting medication for rheumatoid Arthritis.

Try presenting the NICE guidelines to the GP here
Ask to be referred as it is the small joints in your hands. You can have RA with negative bloods (sero-negative RA). Even if it is osteoarthritis then there are anti-inflamms and painkillers and physio etc.