Rheumatology and
Musculo-skeletal Clinic
 
 
 
Rheumatology
Rheumatology is the study and treatment of inflammatory diseases, and non-surgical treatment of joint and soft tissue disorders.  Subsets of non-inflammatory diseases include osteoarthritis, osteoporosis, musculo-skeletal medicine, fibromyalgia, sports injuries, some occupational overuse injuries, and non-surgical work and home related injuries.
 
Although there are over 100 different inflammatory diseases, the most common ones are listed on the left-hand side with links to good web sites for more information on each disease and their common medications.  This is not intended to be an exhaustive list, but rather a list of common problems and a way to find further information.
 
The doctors are aware that nutrition and sunshine can play a part in maintaining your health.  A simple blood test can now tell if you are getting sufficient sunshine for bone health. Vitamin D is even more important in New Zealand where the sun burns far too easily: the balance between getting enough sunshine to boost Vitamin D levels and yet not increase the risk of melanoma is getting more difficult without Vitamin D supplementation.  The doctors can also tell you if your nutritional supplements, such as omega 3-enriched fish oil, or glucosamine, are likely to help your particular type of arthritis, or if your diet is making your gout worse.