Rheumatism in back

Rheumatism in the back is a bothersome and painful condition that affects many people. We provide you with more information about the causes, symptoms, and treatment options for this condition. Read on below for more details.

What is rheumatism?

Rheumatism is not a single disease but a collective term for more than 100 different types of disorders affecting the musculoskeletal system. These include the joints, muscles, bones, nerves, and tendons. Rheumatism can be divided into three main categories: osteoarthritis, inflammatory rheumatism, and soft tissue rheumatism. The latter is the least common of the three. Inflammatory rheumatism occurs when inflammation develops in one or more areas of the body, such as muscles, joints, or tendons. Osteoarthritis is the most common form of rheumatism. It involves the wearing down of cartilage, which leads to loss of strength.

What causes rheumatism in the back?

The cause of rheumatism in the back is not known. What is known, however, is that heredity plays a role. A disrupted immune system, heavy physical labor, or poor posture also contribute significantly. Being overweight and smoking appear to have a strong influence as well. Rheumatism in the back can affect anyone, men or women, young or old. When rheumatism is diagnosed in children, it is referred to as juvenile rheumatism.

What are the symptoms?

Because there are so many different types of rheumatic conditions, there are also many different symptoms. Below are the most common complaints:

• Stiffness after sitting still for a while
• Reduced mobility
• Joint pain
• Cracking or grinding sounds in the joints
• Warm and swollen joints
• Fatigue

How is rheumatism in the back diagnosed?

Rheumatism in the back is diagnosed by your treating physician. He or she will ask about your medical history and perform a physical examination. Additional tests such as an X-ray may be conducted. In some cases, a blood test is done to determine the severity of the rheumatic symptoms.

What treatments are available?

After the diagnosis, your doctor will discuss which treatments are possible to help relieve the pain. Treatment often begins with medication. There are specific rheumatism medicines available that are often combined with painkillers. In some cases, surgery may be recommended. There are also several alternative treatments that can provide good support, such as homeopathy, dietary supplements, or acupuncture. Make sure to follow these only alongside your regular medical treatment and always consult your doctor.

Wearing back support is also an excellent way to reduce pain symptoms. A brace provides optimal support and stability with a comfortable fit. In certain cases, surgery is advised. During surgery, the affected joint may be cleaned, fused, or even replaced with an artificial joint. Your doctor will discuss which type of surgery is best for you. After surgery, it is also recommended to wear a back brace, as it provides the necessary support for your back.