Rheumatology
Rheumatology is the speciality relating to disorders of the
musculoskeletal system, for example, joints, bones and muscle
diseases. Patients present with one or more of the following
symptoms:
- Joint pains / swelling
- Spinal symptoms, especially back pain
- Muscle aches / stiffness
In addition, this speciality covers general fatigue,
osteoporosis and abnormal reactions of the immune system to
antigenic challenge be it viral, bacterial or chemical.
Patients complaining of musculoskeletal symptoms will require
proper assessment by specialised tests, which help the
rheumatologist to diagnose the disorder and choose the appropriate
management plan.
Modern rheumatological practice puts emphasis on the need for
early diagnosis and treatment of inflammatory joint and back
conditions to ensure effective disease suppression and prevent
chronicity.
There have been exciting new developments within rheumatology in
the last decade of the millennium in the way of effective
immunotherapy of inflammatory arthritis, treatment and prevention
of osteoporosis and holistic multidisciplinary team approach to
common rheumatological problems. We have become more focused in
selecting the appropriate techniques in physical therapy and
treating certain forms of soft tissue rheumatism with complementary
therapy such as acupuncture.
The diagnostic facilities available at Bupa Cromwell Hospital
have enabled the rheumatologists affiliated to the Hospital to
implement the above-mentioned developments.