METHODS

Design:

randomised controlled trial (RCT).

Allocation:

{concealed*}†.

Blinding:

blinded {data analysts and data safety and monitoring committee}†.*

Follow up period:

2 weeks.

Setting:

{rheumatology clinic in the University of New Mexico Health Sciences Centre, Albuquerque, New Mexico, USA}†.

Patients:

104 patients (mean age 52 y, 82% women) who had a swollen, painful large (hip, knee) or intermediate sized joint (shoulder, ankle, wrist); rheumatoid arthritis, idiopathic monarthritis, osteoarthritis, reactive arthritis, systemic lupus erythematosus, or acute gout; and required IACSIs for usual medical care. …