What Is Rheumatology?

byAlma Abell

Rheumatology is a unique sub-specialty, which is included with internal medicine and pediatric care, that is specifically devoted to the diagnosis and therapy of rheumatic diseases. Rheumatology handles clinical problems involving joints, soft tissues, autoimmune diseases, vasculitis, and heritable connective tissue disorders. Most of the disorders included are disorders that affect the immune system, making rheumatology the study of immunology as well. There are many disorders included with rheumatology, but they usually fall into one of two classifications: degenerative or inflammatory.

Degenerative

The primary degenerative condition is osteoarthritis. This is a type of joint disease, which is usually a result of broken down joint cartilage and underlying bone. The biggest sign of this condition is pain, which makes regular activity difficult when it is combined with stiffness and the loss of mobility. A doctor who specializes in osteoarthritis may recommend changes to the individual’s lifestyle, physical therapy, or specific medications. Luckily, there are many medications presently available that target degenerative pain associated with osteoarthritis.

Inflammatory

Inflammatory conditions include any condition that causes swelling and inflammation. If these conditions are treated with medication, you will need an NSAID to relieve the pain, since they are designed to alleviate inflammation. Inflammation can be caused by infection, trauma, stress, poor nutrition and lifestyle habits, environmental toxins and other triggers. Some common inflammatory conditions that are handled by a specialist include rheumatoid arthritis and septic arthritis.

Systemic and Connective Tissue Diseases

Specifically, rheumatology also handles the tissues that control major body systems and the protein-rich tissue that supports the organs and other parts of the body. These body systems are essential to maintain, since pain caused in these areas of the body make it difficult to sustain any type of lifestyle beyond bed-rest. A rheumatologist can help to control the pain and provide options for restoring mobility. Some common systemic conditions and connective tissue diseases include lupus, Sjögren’s syndrome, and systemic sclerosis.

When to See a Rheumatology Specialist

As with many different specialties, your primary care physician is the first person you should see when the onset of pain occurs. If your physician determines that you need to see a specialist, or you request a visit with a specialist, make sure to tell the new physician about your pain and issues with in-depth detail, allowing him to determine the next course of action. Whether you need a prescription or physical therapy, rheumatology specialists are essential to treating these painful conditions.