rheumatoid_arthritis, atrophic_arthritis, rheumatismA chronic autoimmune disease with inflammation of the joints and marked deformities; something (possibly a virus) triggers an attack on the synovium by the immune system, which releases cytokines that stimulate an inflammatory reaction that can lead to the destruction of all components of the joint.
‘rheumatic disorders’ include:-
Ø Polymyalgia Rheumatica – in this disorder there is pain and stiffness in a lot of different muscles, especially those around the shoulders. It affects mainly the elderly.
Ø Tenosynovitis – This is an inflammation of the sheathes of the tendons – they are the cord-like structures in the wrist and elsewhere, which many older people call ‘leaders’.
Ø Capsulitis – this is an inflammation of the capsule (the covering) of the joint, often the shoulder.
Ø Bursitis – This is an inflammation caused by friction between soft tissues and underlying bone. A ‘sac’ of fluid develops.