RHEUMATOLOGY

Rheumatology is a medical specialty that focuses on the functioning of the musculoskeletal system (skeleton, muscles, joints) and its dysfunctions.

Your general practitioner will refer you to a rheumatologist if you suffer from unexplained bone, joint or muscle pain, or functional discomfort (limited movement, joint blockage).

The rheumatologist takes care of :

• Bone disorders (fractures, osteoporosis, malformations...).
• Joint pain (osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis...).
• Peri-articular pain (tendinitis, tennis elbow...).
• Nervous disorders (sciatica, carpal tunnel syndrome, low back pain...).

In addition to genetic factors, seniors, athletes, certain professions - construction, agriculture, sewing - and overweight individuals are particularly affected by these conditions. The female population over 50 is also highly exposed due to bone fragility induced by menopause. Quantifiable by an examination (bone density testing), loss of bone strength is the leading cause of osteoarthritis and osteoporosis.