Increased hyperpolarized [1- C] lactate production in a model of joint inflammation is not accompanied by tissue acidosis as assessed using hyperpolarized C-labelled bicarbonate.

Arthritic conditions are a major source of chronic pain. Furthering our understanding of disease mechanisms creates the opportunity to develop more targeted therapeutics. In rheumatoid arthritis (RA), measurements of pH in human synovial fluid suggest that acidosis occurs, but that this is highly variable between individuals.