Rheumatic disorders are a group of conditions that affect the joints, muscles, and bones. They can cause pain, inflammation, stiffness, and difficulty with movement. There are many different types of rheumatic disorders, including:
- Osteoarthritis: a degenerative joint disease that commonly affects older adults and can cause pain, stiffness, and limited range of motion in the affected joint.
- Rheumatoid arthritis: an autoimmune disorder that causes the body's immune system to attack the joints, leading to inflammation, pain, and eventually joint damage.
- Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE): an autoimmune disorder that can affect many different parts of the body, including the joints, skin, kidneys, and other organs.
- Sjogren's syndrome: an autoimmune disorder that primarily affects the salivary glands and tear ducts, leading to dry mouth and eyes, and can also cause joint pain and stiffness.
- Gout: a form of arthritis caused by the buildup of uric acid crystals in the joints, leading to sudden and severe pain, swelling, and redness.
- Ankylosing spondylitis: a chronic inflammatory disorder that primarily affects the spine and sacroiliac joints, causing pain and stiffness in the back and hips.
- Polymyalgia rheumatica: a condition that primarily affects older adults and causes pain and stiffness in the shoulders, hips, and neck.
- Psoriatic arthritis: a form of arthritis that can develop in people with psoriasis, a skin condition characterized by scaly patches on the skin.
- Juvenile idiopathic arthritis: a group of autoimmune disorders that affect children and can cause joint pain, stiffness, and limited range of motion.
Treatment for rheumatic disorders varies depending on the specific condition and severity of symptoms, but may include medications, physical therapy, lifestyle changes, and surgery in some cases. It is important for individuals with rheumatic disorders to work closely with their healthcare team to manage their condition and prevent complications.