Soft Tissue Rheumatism

Many rheumatic conditions are caused by problems affecting cartilage or bone. Soft tissue rheumatism comprises a variety of painful conditions that affect soft connective tissues.

The tissues affected include tendons, which connect muscle to bone, and ligaments, which bind bones together.

Other soft tissues include the joint capsule, which surrounds the joint, and bursae, which are fluid-filled sacs that help to prevent friction in and around the joints.

In many cases we are not sure what causes the pain of soft tissue rheumatism, since there doesn’t appear to be any inflammation in the tissues.

However caused, soft tissue rheumatism is often treated using non-steroidal antiinflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) or corticosteroid injections. Other treatments include rest, ice, and various forms of physiotherapy.

Research Admin     Terms & Conditions © 2005 Cambridge Arthritis Research Endeavour - Registered Charity No. 802862 © 2005 Design & Programming :Biscuit Software Ltd