Teaching newly diagnosed arthritis patients to manage their condition

This trial is testing whether a new self-management support program called NISMA helps patients who were recently diagnosed with inflammatory arthritis—such as rheumatoid arthritis, psoriatic arthritis, or axial spondyloarthritis—feel better and cope with their condition. The program teaches patients practical skills for managing their disease, dealing with pain and fatigue, and handling the emotional and social changes that come with a new diagnosis. Half of the participants will receive the NISMA program on top of their regular doctor visits, while the other half will receive standard care alone.

Many newly diagnosed arthritis patients struggle with ongoing pain, fatigue, medication side effects, and emotional distress, even when their disease is controlled with medication. This trial exists because research shows that teaching patients effective self-management strategies can improve their quality of life, but these skills are not routinely offered in most arthritis clinics.