Rheumatology is a branch of medicine that focuses on the diagnosis, treatment, and management of autoimmune and inflammatory diseases that primarily affect the joints, muscles, bones, and connective tissues.
These conditions, known as rheumatic diseases, include rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, gout, osteoarthritis, ankylosing spondylitis, and various other systemic autoimmune disorders. Rheumatologists use a combination of clinical evaluation, laboratory tests, and imaging studies to diagnose these conditions and develop personalized treatment plans. Treatment approaches often include medications, physical therapy, and lifestyle modifications to manage symptoms, reduce inflammation, and prevent disease progression.