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Prof. Hector Chinoy

Rheumatologist

appreciated the opportunity to see Professor Chinoy and I recognise his substantial expertise in rheumatology and inflammatory muscle conditions. He was polite, clear, and reassuring in his manner. However, I left the appointment feeling that some key parts of my longitudinal history were not fully integrated into the assessment. Despite having uploaded all my scans from 2021, 2022, and September 2025, these were not able to be reviewed together during the consultation because the files were not opened on the system. This meant we were unable to discuss the progression pattern across the years — including the shift from right-sided abnormalities (fatty infiltration in 2021, right psoas sheath oedema in 2022, and right paraspinal inflammation in May 2025) to the newly emergent left-sided oedema in September 2025. This remains one of my main concerns, and I had hoped to go through it as a connected clinical story. I also felt somewhat discouraged when the peer-reviewed publications I mentioned — particularly the Brain journal review “Axial Myopathy: an overlooked feature of muscle diseases” — were dismissed as unhelpful for patients to read. I fully understand the concern about online searches, but the review is a major academic paper describing: • axial myopathy being frequently misattributed to spinal degeneration, • seronegative inflammatory myopathies, • cases where paraspinal involvement is the earliest or only manifestation, and • the consistent issue that MRI abnormalities in the paraspinal muscles are under-recognised by non-neuromuscular specialists. These points felt directly relevant to my pattern of findings, particularly as my bloods have remained seronegative and several consultants have attributed the MRI abnormalities mainly to spinal wear-and-tear — something the paper specifically warns can lead to under-diagnosis. I appreciate that Professor Chinoy believes the fatty infiltration and oedema are most likely secondary to spinal changes. However, this does not fully account for: • the right-to-left progression seen on imaging, • the severe nocturnal pain and inability to turn in bed, • the sudden onset bilateral hand pain, stiffness and locking, • the persistence of symptoms despite minimal radiological change in the spine over four years, and • the coexistence of Hashimoto’s disease, which rheumatology felt was irrelevant despite autoimmune diseases sometimes clustering. I am grateful that he has arranged for radiology to re-review the entire MRI set, and I appreciate this very much. However, the consultation left me feeling that many parts of my history and symptoms remain unexplained, and that the published evidence on axial/paraspinal muscle disease — especially in seronegative patients — was not fully considered.

Mr Graeme Nicol

Orthopaedic Surgeon

Mr. Nicol replaced my right hip about 3 weeks ago, using the anterior approach process. I can't speak highly enough about what he and his anaesthetist, Mr. Andrew Dalton, did for me, making the whole event so straightforward. They were extremely professional but at the same time very approachable and happy to discuss any and all questions. I had a hip replacement 11 years ago but this time it was very different and very much easier and I have not had the difficulties I experienced last time post op - easier to start the rehab, exercises, easier to get a decent sleep, not nearly so much initial discomfort. I had the op at King's Park Hospital which gave me excellent care ( my nurse Stephanie was brilliant) and I was home the following day, having had check up visits from Mr. Nicol and Mr. Dalton. I would absolutely recommend Mr. Dalton - if I had a third hip I'd be asking him to replace it too!

Spire Hartswood Hospital

Weight Loss & Bariatric Surgery, Allergy Medicine, + 20 more

I recently returned to Spire Hartswood Hospital for my post-hip replacement follow-up, and I was once again very impressed with the level of care. The staff were attentive, professional, and genuinely caring throughout my visit.. Everything ran smoothly and on time , and I felt well looked after from the moment I arrived. The facilities are spotless and comfortable, and the aftercare support has been excellent. I’m extremely pleased with my recovery and grateful to the entire team at Spire Hartswood for their continued professionalism and kindness!

New Forest Psychiatry

Psychiatry

I was made to feel comfortable right from the start. To my surprise, there wasn’t even a hint of awkwardness. The level of questioning was perfectly balanced - just enough to gather insight without overwhelming me. I often get tearful when explaining myself, but that feeling was almost instantly eased the few times it began to surface. I felt understood, and that made all the difference. Thank you for starting the journey of unravelling this for me. I feel a huge sense of relief.

Spire London East Hospital

Gastroenterology, Obstetrics & Gynaecology, + 21 more

I had a great experience at this practice. The hospital was exceptionally clean, well-structured, and very well organized. There was hardly any waiting time, and I was called in for my appointment surprisingly quickly. The facilities were also outstanding. Both the hospital itself and the X-ray department were equipped with modern, high-quality technology, which made the whole process smooth and efficient. Overall, it was an impressive and reassuring experience.

Ms Alison Luther

General Surgeon

I cannot recommend Dr Luther highly enough! From the moment I walked into her treatment room, I felt welcomed and valued. She took the time to listen to all my concerns, demonstrating genuine care for my well-being. Her holistic approach to assessment was refreshing. Dr Luther's expertise and compassionate demeanour made my experience truly exceptional. She provided clear explanations. I had every confidence in her.

Spire Murrayfield Hospital Edinburgh

Cardiology, Cosmetic (Aesthetic) Medicine, + 15 more

Spire was brilliant. Clean, Friendly staff, fast process (MRI in just a few days for example). I had a nerve block injection at Murrayfield and I had my own room which was spotless, all the staff were great from the nurse in the ward to the surgeon via the person who brought me lunch (which I could pick off a menu). Would highly recommend (though don’t injure yourself in the first place if you can help it)

Dr Andrew Cockbain

General Surgeon

Dr Cockbain explained thoroughly everything relating to the procedure in an engaging manner prior to surgery putting me at ease. My initial recovery process has been excellently managed and I appreciated the post surgery visit from both Dr Cockbain and the anaesthetist. I have been impressed by the professional and personable approach taken throughout this experience by everyone involved at Nuffield Leeds

Dr Sayan Sen

Cardiologist, Diagnostic Pathway Specialist

I am very impressed by Dr Sean’s thoroughness and professionalism in getting the right tests and scans arranged at very short notice and in organising my colonoscopy when he found out I had cancer and giving me and the family very good advice in terms of referring to the right specialist to get the right diagnosis and treatment. I and the family can’t praise and thank him enough. Simply wonderful.

Perfect Balance Clinic - Hatfield

Breastfeeding and Lactation Counsellor, Diagnostics & Testing, + 7 more

Very inexperienced physio. Took significant time to understand the problem. Asked all questions (clearly from script/list of qs), even when already discussed and known as irrelevant, or already covered the answer. Exercises provided in technical terms only, hard for lay person to remember and understand. Zero follow up even though it was promised.

Miss Claire Mellon & Associates

Holistic Therapy, Obstetrics & Gynaecology, + 1 more

I love coming to the clinic. The stuff is very friendly. The waiting room is bright and the decor is very tasteful with a clear feminine touch. It is a space designed by women for women which I appreciate. I have come many times and I haven't waited for more than a few minutes to be seen. Coffee and tea available if you arrive early.

Mr Nick Sheppard

Plastic Surgeon

Nick really knows his stuff. I was referred to Nick to have a ganglion cyst removed from my wrist. Almost 4 months later, I am back doing the things I love again, playing badminton, exercising and working out, and it’s such a neat little scar. Thank you for working your magic, you have literally changed my life!!

Mr David Lawrence

Cardiothoracic Surgeon

The overall experience was excellent, the care and attention I received from the medical staff and the nurses on the ward was exemplary it made what could have been a traumatic experience bearable. the post surgery pain relief was good and I had no unexpected pain especially after the chest drain was removed.

Mr Amol R Chitre

Orthopaedic Surgeon

This was a check up appointment, following surgery for a total hip replacement. Mr Chitre was prompt, extremely pleasant and encouraging. He took time to answer all my questions about ongoing recovery and to show my wife and I the before and after X-rays. We are delighted with the treatment I have received

Spencer Private Hospital Canterbury

Cardiology, Ear Nose & Throat Surgery (ENT/Otolaryngology), + 6 more

I made it very clear to the members of staff when I woke up from my procedure that I felt incredibly dizzy and sick. However 30 minutes after I was brought back to the unit I was discharged. Even my husband told the nurses that I was still dizzy and felt nausea. We got home and I slept for three hours.

London Gynaecology - Moorgate

General Practice (GP), General Practice (GP) (Video Consultation), + 1 more

I had been suffering with symptoms for some time without receiving a proper diagnosis. I booked a visit with Ms Smriti Kuntal, and within a few days I had a diagnosis and treatment plan. During the visit, Ms Kuntal was extremely thorough and empathetic, and I felt confident and reassured by her.