Arthritis clinical trials are research studies that test new treatments for rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis and other joint conditions, and some compensate participants for their time. In the UK, these studies are run by the NHS, universities and private research units, all regulated by the MHRA. This guide explains who can take part, what to expect, and how to find a genuine study safely.
Who is this guide for?
This guide is for people living with arthritis or joint pain who are interested in research studies, as well as those wanting to understand how arthritis trials work, eligibility, and how to apply through legitimate channels.
What are arthritis clinical trials?
Arthritis clinical trials are controlled studies that test new ways to treat or manage joint conditions. They may involve new medications, biologic therapies, physiotherapy approaches, devices, or treatments to slow joint damage and reduce pain. Studies cover conditions including rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, psoriatic arthritis and ankylosing spondylitis.
Who can take part in an arthritis trial?
Eligibility depends on the specific study. Common criteria include:
- A confirmed diagnosis of a specific type of arthritis
- Being within a certain age range
- Current symptom severity or disease activity
- Previous or current treatments tried
- General health and other medical conditions
Each trial has its own inclusion and exclusion criteria, set out in the participant information sheet before you consent.
Do arthritis clinical trials pay?
Some do. Compensation depends on the study, its length and the number of visits:
- Outpatient visits: £50–£200 per visit
- Longer studies: several hundred pounds or more
Many NHS and university arthritis studies cover travel expenses only, as the focus is on treatment and research. For how payment works generally, see our guide to the best-paid clinical trials.
How do you find an arthritis clinical trial?
- Search a registered source. Use the UK’s Be Part of Research service or the WHO registry.
- Check arthritis charities. Organisations such as Versus Arthritis share research opportunities.
- Speak to your rheumatology team or GP. They may know of suitable studies.
- Read the participant information sheet for what’s involved, any compensation, and your right to withdraw.
Are arthritis clinical trials safe?
UK arthritis trials operate under strict safeguards: every study must be authorised by the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) and approved by an independent research ethics committee, as the NHS explains. You are monitored by medical staff throughout and can withdraw at any time, without giving a reason. Our guide to clinical trial safety and compensation covers the protections in more depth.
The bottom line
Arthritis clinical trials offer access to new treatments and the chance to contribute to research that helps others with joint conditions. Use a registered source, confirm the study is MHRA-approved, never pay to take part, and read the information sheet before you consent.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do arthritis clinical trials pay?
Some do, typically £50–£200 per visit or more for longer studies. Many NHS and university studies cover expenses only.
Can I join an arthritis trial if I’m already on medication?
It depends on the study. Some recruit people already on treatment; others require a washout period or specific prior treatments. The criteria will make this clear.
Which types of arthritis have clinical trials?
Trials run for rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, psoriatic arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis and other joint conditions.
Are arthritis clinical trials safe?
Yes. They are MHRA-authorised, ethics-approved and medically supervised throughout. You can withdraw at any time.
How do I find an arthritis trial near me?
Use the NHS Be Part of Research service, check Versus Arthritis, ask your rheumatology team, or compare studies through CheckMyTrial.
Find clinical trials near you
CheckMyTrial helps you compare clinical trials across the UK by location, condition and study type. Browse current trials or read how clinical trials work before you apply.