Rheumatism causes severe pain in elbows, joints and soft tissues. Rheumatoid diseases in soft tissue generally arise from inflammation. It can also cause severe pain in lumbar and knee areas. The main complaints suggesting rheumatoid diseases include the following;
- Pain, swelling in joints and limitation of movement,
- Morning stiffness in joints,
- Lumbar pain and stiffness especially in the morning,
- Paleness or purple color in fingers in cold air,
- Subcutaneous nodules,
- Oversensitivity of the skin against sun, and development of sores,
- Hardness of skin in hands or any other part of the body,
- Weakness, inability of climbing up or down the stairs, and muscular pain,
- Sores in the mouth or genital area,
- Frequent inflammation in eyes,
- Repetitive abdominal pain,
- Dryness in mouth or eyes,
- Unexplained fever,
- Unexplained weight loss,
- Unexplained rashes.
Although these seven signs are not seen in all the rheumatoid pain syndrome patients, the first four signs as a minimum are seen in the majority of cases.
Painkillers are used in the treatment of rheumatoid diseases to mitigate pain. Antirheumatics in the form of gel or tablets are used with prescription. Anti-inflammatory painkillers also can be used in the treatment of rheumatism. Pain can be reduced with narcotic painkillers in cases where simple painkillers do not suffice. Narcotic painkillers must always be used under the doctor’s control, because most of these have adverse effects such as nausea, vomiting, vertigo and similar. Avoiding the drugs claimed to be herbal is recommended. Nonsteroidal drugs are used to treat inflammation. Physical therapy methods provide rather effective treatment possibilities in the treatment of rheumatoid diseases. Heat application, exercises suitable for the patient’s disease with the help of smart exercise devices and special massaging are among the techniques used in the treatment. Rheumatoid diseases are included among the diseases that physical therapy and rehabilitation provide the highest success.