General practice rheumatology

A survey of 1000 consecutive patients presenting with a new complaint in general practice was carried out to determine the frequency and types of rheumatic problems encountered and the treatments required. Sixty-three (6.3%) of these were for rheumatic complaints. Of these 43% involved the lower back. Soft tissue disorders were predominant and 54% of patients were managed with advice and reassurance only. This suggests that a greater emphasis on these disorders is necessary for doctors in training. During a minimum follow-up period of 3 months, seven (11%) of the 63 patients were referred for specialist opinions.