Rheumatology is a branch of medicine that focuses on diagnosing and treating rheumatic diseases, which often affect the joints, muscles, and bones, but can also involve other systems in the body. Common conditions include arthritis (like rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis), lupus, gout, and fibromyalgia.
Rheumatologists use a combination of medical history, physical exams, imaging studies, and laboratory tests to assess and manage these conditions. Treatment often involves medications, physical therapy, lifestyle changes, and sometimes surgical interventions. If you have specific questions or topics you’d like to explore within rheumatology, feel free to ask!