Rheumatoid arthritis is an auto-immune rheumatic diseases disease characterised by pain, swelling, stiffness and loss of function of the joints. Spectrum of manifestation is different in different patients.

Ankylosing spondylitis is a form of chronic inflammatory arthritis affecting spine and sacroiliac joints. Over time, chronic spinal inflammation (spondylitis) can lead to a complete cementing together (fusion) of the vertebrae, a process referred to as ankylosis. Ankylosis leads to loss of mobility of the spine.

Lupus is an autoimmune disease that may affect joints, skin, kidneys or any other part of your body. An auto-immune disease is whereby the body’s defence system reacts to the body’s own tissue. This disease is more common in females of childbearing age.

Gout is an inflammatory joint disease. This condition is caused by increased levels of uric acid in the blood. The uric acid forms crystals, which deposit in joints. The deposition of these crystals cause redness, warmth, swelling and pain in various joints.

The main symptoms of fibromyalgia include widespread pain which can be felt in the joints, muscles or both. Fatigue (often severe) and sleep disturbance are very common. Widespread pins and needles sensations, irritable bowel symptoms, non-cardiac chest pain and headaches are also common.

Osteoarthritis is the most common form of arthritis, where changes in the lining, cartilage, bone and fluids of joints occur. Cartilage (connective tissue) between the bones gradually wastes away (degenerates), and this can lead to painful rubbing of bone on bone in the joints.

Osteoporosis is a disease affecting the integrity of bone. A large majority of osteoporosis cases lead to bone fractures most commonly in the spine and hips. It is the leading cause of fractures in both menopausal women and the elderly.

Vasculitis is a broad group of diseases characterised by the inflammation in the blood vessels wall. This inflammation causes narrowing of the lumen of the vessel and diminished blood flow through the involved vessel. This results in reduced supply of oxygen and essential nutrient to the involved tissue and eventually tissue damage.