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Medical specialists
Specialists in rheumatic diseases are rheumatologists.
Rheumatologists are doctors who specialize in diagnosing and treating certain diseases of the musculoskeletal system and the immune system. These disorders include a wide range of conditions often referred to as rheumatic diseases. This includes:
- Arthritis: Inflammatory diseases of the joints, such as rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis.
- Autoimmune diseases: Diseases in which the immune system mistakenly attacks healthy tissues, such as lupus erythematosus and Sjögren's syndrome.
- Painful conditions: Conditions that cause chronic pain, such as fibromyalgia.
- Metabolic disorders: Diseases such as gout caused by abnormal metabolic processes.
Doctors also speak of rheumatic diseases, which are usually treated by rheumatologists.
Rheumatologists use a variety of diagnostic methods, including blood tests, imaging techniques such as X-rays and MRIs, and clinical examinations to identify and treat these conditions.
Treatment may include medication, physical therapy and sometimes surgery. The aim is to relieve pain, reduce inflammation and maintain or improve the patient's functionality and quality of life.
An overview of specialists in the field of rheumatology is provided on the Care map of the German Society of Rheumatology and Immunology. It lists not only doctors specialising in rheumatology, but also physiotherapists, occupational therapists, psychotherapists, rheumatology centres and rehabilitation clinics.
This is because different specialisms are often necessary to create an optimal treatment plan.
Psychotherapists
Rheumatic diseases are not only a physical challenge, but also an emotional one. The care map lists certified psychologists to whom those affected can turn. Whether behavioural, talk or group therapy is the right form of therapy can be explored together with counselling services.
Rehabilitation
Rheumatic diseases can affect various areas of life. In a day-to-day life that is full of work, family, friends and leisure activities, there is often a lack of space and time to consider one's own health needs.
During outpatient or inpatient rehabilitation, the patient takes centre stage. The aim of rehabilitation is to reduce physical, psychological and social limitations and to train patients in health literacy and disease management.
Together with the rheumatologists and/or GPs treating them, patients can weigh up whether rehabilitation makes sense and, if necessary, apply for rehabilitation.
An overview of rheumatological rehabilitation clinics is shown on the care map.
Consultation
Die German Rheumatism League iis the largest German self-help organisation in the health sector.
It offers information, support and numerous services and events for relatives and sufferers of rheumatic diseases, and patients can contact the organisation free of charge on 0800 - 600 25 25 if they have any questions in the medical, socio-legal or psychosocial areas. The Rheuma League also offers on-site counselling at one of its locations.
Self-help groups
It is often not easy to explain to people what a rheumatic disease is and how it affects their lives and everyday life. Those affected therefore often feel alone with the burden of the disease.
In self-help groups, those affected come together and can talk about life and everyday life with rheumatic diseases in a protected space.
There are self-help groups in every federal state where those affected can exchange ideas, give each other tips and stand up for the interests of people with rheumatic diseases.
Digital offerings
The Rheuma League offers the opportunity to get in touch with other sufferers and experts from home. There are numerous forums on a wide range of topics where you can ask questions, discuss and provide support free of charge and anonymously - whether on the subject of medication, exercise, pregnancy or family.
The Rheuma League provides brochures and guides that have been checked by experts. These are available to download online, but can also be ordered from a regional or member organisation.
