Rheumatology is a specialty of internal medicine concerned with the diagnosis and treatment of inflammatory joint and muscle disorders, as well as systemic connective tissue diseases. The main symptom of these conditions is ‘rheumatism’ – pain in the bones and joints, aching pain, and fluctuating pain in the affected region. Medical care for rheumatic diseases is provided by a rheumatologist.

It is worth visiting a rheumatologist if you experience joint swelling and pain (including in small joints), unexplained skin rashes, psoriasis or fever of unknown origin. Appointment is also recommended for young people with long-standing lower back pain (lasting more than 3 months).

It is recommended to see a rheumatologist to get an expert opinion on an existing diagnosis or treatment plan and to receive further advice on living with the condition. It is likewise beneficial for monitoring chronic conditions and for regular follow-up appointments.

Types of rheumatic diseases include:

• arthritis (joint inflammation, incl. rheumatoid arthritis);
• spondyloarthropathies (spinal arthritis, incl. ankylosing spondylitis);
• osteoarthritis (joint wear and tear);
• systemic connective tissue disorders (lupus, dermatomyositis, scleroderma, etc.);
• vasculitis (inflammation of the blood vessels);
• extra-articular soft tissue disorders (i.e. soft tissue pain: bursitis, tendinitis, etc.);
• bone metabolic disorders (incl. osteoporosis);
• inherited disorders of connective tissue and joints;
• acquired joint deformities.

Methods used in rheumatology for the diagnosis and treatment of rheumatic diseases:

• anti-inflammatory and analgesic medication;
• disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs), including biological therapy;
• medications affecting bone metabolism;
• joint aspiration and intra-articular injections;
• ultrasound of the joints; bone densitometry (DXA scan for bone density).

Appointments