Rheumatology
Rheumatology is a medical specialty that focuses on the diagnosis and treatment of diseases and conditions that affect the musculoskeletal system, particularly the joints, muscles, bones, and connective tissues. Rheumatologists are doctors who specialize in managing a wide range of disorders, including arthritis, autoimmune diseases like rheumatoid arthritis and lupus, osteoporosis, and other conditions that impact the body's ability to move and function properly.
Rheumatology is a branch of medicine that deals with the investigation, diagnosis and management of people living with rheumatic and musculoskeletal diseases. These diseases are usually caused by problems in the immune system, inflammation, infections, or the gradual deterioration of joints, muscles and bones. Rheumatic and musculoskeletal conditions affect soft tissues, joints, bones, cartilage, tendons, ligaments and muscles – also known as connective tissues. Within rheumatology, the two abbreviations MSK (musculoskeletal) and RMD (rheumatic and musculoskeletal diseases) are often used interchangeably, although MSK conditions are, technically, one subset of RMDs.
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Rheumatology covers more than 100 different complex diseases, collectively known as rheumatic diseases, which includes many forms of arthritis as well as lupus and Sjögren's syndrome. Many of these diseases are now known to be disorders of the immune system, and rheumatology has significant overlap with immunology, the branch of medicine that studies the immune system.
The initial assessment of a person with rheumatic disease begins with a case history and physical examination. Laboratory tests, imaging studies, and other diagnostic procedures may be conducted to confirm the diagnosis.
Treatment for rheumatic diseases may include medications, physical therapy, occupational therapy, and surgery. The goal of treatment is to relieve pain, reduce inflammation, and improve the patient's ability to function.