Rheumatology diseases: Diagnosis & treatment options in Turkey 2024

What is rheumatology?

Rheumatology is a branch of medicine that specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of diseases that affect the musculoskeletal system, or all the structures that allow movement: bones, joints, muscles, tendons, and ligaments.

From simple back pain to complex inflammatory diseases, rheumatologists treat a wide range of conditions that affect the musculoskeletal system. Some can even affect the nervous system, requiring a comprehensive approach.

Why and when should one consult a rheumatologist in Turkey?

Do your joints hurt? Do you have stiffness, swelling or persistent pain? A rheumatologist is the right specialist for you! Find out why and when.

When should you see a rheumatologist?

Rheumatologists are experts in diseases that affect the bones, joints and muscles.

You should see a rheumatologist urgently if you have:

• Persistent joint pain: whether localized or diffuse, on exertion or at rest, it may be a sign of rheumatic pathology.
• Arthritis: swelling, redness or heat in a joint, often accompanied by morning stiffness.
• Limitation of movement in daily activities.
• Chronic back pain, with or without morning stiffness.
• Joint blockages: these can be very disabling and require specialized treatment.

Why consult us early?

Early diagnosis is essential for appropriate and effective treatment, which often involves a combination of :

• Medication to relieve pain and reduce inflammation.
• Physiotherapy to improve mobility and strengthen muscles.
• Surgery, in some cases, to repair damaged joints.

Don't let pain ruin your life! Consult a rheumatologist in Turkey for an accurate diagnosis and personalized treatment. Your quality of life depends on it!

What conditions does a rheumatologist treat?

Rheumatologists treat a variety of conditions, including:

• Osteoarthritis: wear and tear on cartilage that causes pain and stiffness.
• Osteoporosis: brittle bones that increase the risk of fractures.
• Gout: attacks of intense pain caused by excess uric acid.
• Rheumatoid arthritis: a chronic inflammatory disease that mainly affects the joints.
• Ankylosing spondylitis: an inflammatory disease that mainly affects the spine.
• Fibromyalgia: a chronic disease characterized by diffuse muscle pain.
• Connective tissue diseases: such as lupus or scleroderma.

Diagnosis of rheumatic diseases in Turkey

In order to make a precise diagnosis and to adjust the treatment accordingly, the rheumatologist in Turkey can use different types of examinations:

Medical imaging examinations

Medical imaging plays an important role in the diagnosis of rheumatic diseases.

The most commonly used tests are: 

• X-rays: to visualize bones and detect bone abnormalities.
• Ultrasound: provides an accurate image of soft tissues and guides injections.
• MRI: provides detailed images of soft tissues and cartilage.
• CT: provides cross-sectional images of bones and joints.
• Bone scintigraphy: detects early bone lesions. 

The choice of imaging test depends on the suspected pathology, and allows the rheumatologist to refine the diagnosis and monitor disease progression. 

Biological tests

Biological tests analyze blood for markers of inflammation, immune abnormalities, or metabolic disorders associated with certain rheumatic diseases.

Joint punctures

Joint punctures involve taking a sample of joint fluid for microscopic analysis to check for the presence of crystals, bacteria, or inflammatory cells.

Treatment options in rheumatology in Turkey

Beyond diagnosis, the rheumatologist is a key player in therapeutic management. Thanks to his expertise, he can propose treatments tailored to each patient, combining efficacy and safety.

Medical treatments

Medical treatment of rheumatic diseases is based on two main principles:

• Symptomatic treatment: aimed at reducing pain and inflammation, this includes the administration of analgesics, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and, in some cases, muscle relaxants. In-office corticosteroid infiltrations can also provide rapid relief for localized pain.
• Disease-modifying therapy: designed to slow disease progression, this may include biological treatments (biotherapy) or oral medications such as methotrexate or leflunomide.

Multidisciplinary management

Treatment is often multidisciplinary. Surgery is considered a last resort, for the most severe cases that are resistant to other therapies. It may include:

• Removal of damaged tissue.
• Tendon repair
• Arthrodesis (stiffening of a joint).
• Fitting a prosthesis.

The role of physiotherapy

Physiotherapy is an important part of treatment, complementing medical therapies. It helps to:

• Relieve pain and other symptoms.
• Improve range of motion.
• Teach daily movements to limit pain and preserve joints.
• Prevent deformities.

The physical therapy program is individualized and tailored to each patient. It includes techniques such as:

• Physical therapy and massage.
• Joint mobilization, stretching and strengthening exercises.

Therapeutic education is essential. The physiotherapist in Turkey teaches you how to better manage your disease on a daily basis by providing advice and adapted exercises.

Prevention of rheumatic diseases

Rheumatic diseases can significantly reduce the quality of life. Fortunately, many preventive measures are within our reach. By adopting a healthy, balanced lifestyle, you can significantly reduce your risk of developing or worsening these conditions.

• An anti-inflammatory diet: To protect your joints, choose a diet rich in antioxidants and omega-3 fatty acids. Include fruits, colorful vegetables, fatty fish, nuts and seeds in your daily diet. On the other hand, reduce your intake of red meat, ultra-processed foods and added sugars, which are the real enemies of inflammation. Maintaining a healthy weight is also essential to reduce stress on your joints.
• Physical activity: Exercise is your best ally! Choose low-impact activities such as swimming, walking, cycling or Tai Chi. These gentle exercises strengthen muscles, improve joint mobility and reduce pain. Listen to your body and adjust the intensity of the activity to your ability.
• Stress management: Chronic stress can worsen the symptoms of rheumatic diseases. Incorporate relaxation techniques such as meditation, yoga, and deep breathing into your daily routine. These practices will help you calm your mind and better cope with pain.
• Protect yourself from cold and damp: Cold and dampness can make joint pain worse. Wear warm, protective clothing, especially in the winter.
• Stop smoking: Smoking increases inflammation and speeds up cartilage destruction. Quitting smoking is one of the best things you can do for your joint health.

Although certain genetic and environmental factors increase the risk of developing rheumatic diseases, a healthy lifestyle remains the best way to prevent their onset or limit their consequences.

Treat rheumatological diseases with Turquie Santé

Turkey is home to an internationally renowned medical community, particularly in rheumatology. Whether you go to a private practice or a hospital, you'll benefit from a high level of expertise. 

Turkish hospitals are equipped with the latest technology and offer treatments tailored to each patient. Their multidisciplinary approach, involving rheumatologists, surgeons, pain specialists and physiotherapists, guarantees comprehensive, personalized care for rheumatic diseases.