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The realisation that chronic pain requires a different approach to treatment compared to acute pain was one of the main advances in pain management during the latter part of the 20th century. New medicines and therapeutic approaches based on that knowledge are now transforming the lives of patients.

As a rheumatologist with a specialist interest in chronic musculoskeletal pain I am able to assist patients with symptoms arising from spinal disorders, inflammatory arthritis and soft tissue disorders. I also see individuals suffering from less well defined disorders including fibromyalgia and work related upper limb disorders.

Chronic pain often is associated with anxiety and uncertainty about the future such that a holistic approach to treatment taking into account the factors unique to the individual produces the most effective outcomes. I place strong emphasis on education and helping people to help themselves.

I am a consultant rheumatologist and also professor of clinical rheumatology at Barts & The London School of Medicine & Dentistry. I am recognised for my research into pain mechanisms in the rheumatic diseases, as well as the early diagnosis and management of inflammatory spinal disorders. I have a lifelong interest in medical education for doctors, allied health professionals as well as members of the public.