Early diagnosis crucial in polyarthralgia

Polyarthralgia is a common problem with a wide range of differential diagnoses. Clinical assessment is the most important factor in making a diagnosis. History and examination should help to differentiate mechanical from inflammatory disorders, and investigations play a small role. Early intervention, regardless of aetiology, is the key to successful management. Treatment is likely to be a combination of lifestyle modification, physical therapy and medication, and this combined approach is most likely to negate the disability and chronic ill-health traditionally seen in patients with polyarthralgia.