Rheumatism: what it is and how ProBrace can help
Do you suffer from stiff joints or painful hands when you wake up? Then there is a good chance rheumatism plays a role. Rheumatism is an umbrella term for more than a hundred conditions affecting joints, muscles and tendons. In this blog you will read what rheumatism actually is, how to recognise it and which aids such as braces or splints can help with rheumatic complaints.
What is rheumatism?
Rheumatism is a collective term for various disorders and includes at least 100 different conditions that affect the musculoskeletal system. Some well-known forms include osteoarthritis, soft-tissue rheumatism, or inflammatory rheumatism. What all forms have in common is that they develop systematically and are not caused by a trauma.
Symptoms of rheumatism
The first signs of rheumatism are often subtle, but clearly noticeable. Many people experience:
- Stiffness and pain in joints, especially in the morning
- Fatigue or loss of strength in hands, wrists or knees
- Warm or swollen joints
- Reduced mobility in fingers or joints
Rheumatism usually develops slowly. If you recognise these complaints, always discuss them with your general practitioner or physiotherapist for further investigation.
Treatment of rheumatism
Rheumatism is usually chronic and cannot be cured but with the right treatment, complaints can be significantly reduced. An effective treatment plan often combines medication (such as anti-inflammatories or painkillers) with physiotherapy or exercise therapy to keep the joints mobile. Braces, splints or insoles can provide extra support. A well-chosen aid helps relieve pain, prevent overload and maintain activity in daily life.
Aids that help with rheumatism
For rheumatic complaints in hands, wrists, ankles or knees, braces can play a significant role. Below is a selection of braces often used for rheumatism:
Thumb braces
- Basko thumb bandage for CMC joint arthritis
- Go Medical rheuma gloves provide compression and warmth for rheumatic pain
Wrist braces
- Thuasne Ligaflex Manu wrist brace relieves pain in rheumatoid arthritis
- Basko Wrist Lacer stabilises the wrist in inflammatory rheumatism
Ankle braces
- Basko ASO ankle brace prevents instability and supports painful ankles
- Thuasne Sport ankle brace easy to put on, ideal for when hand strength is limited
Knee braces
- Bauerfeind GenuTrain knee brace supports the joint and reduces stiffness
- Thuasne Genu ProMaster knee brace provides extra compression in case of osteoarthritis or rheumatic complaints
Our specialists have selected these products based on comfort, ease of use and effectiveness for rheumatic conditions.
Frequently asked questions about rheumatism
What are the first symptoms of rheumatism?
Pain, stiffness and fatigue in joints or muscles. Often worst in the morning.
Which brace helps with rheumatism?
Depending on where the complaints are: a thumb-brace, wrist-brace, knee-brace or ankle-brace may provide relief.
Can rheumatism be cured?
No, rheumatism is usually chronic, but with therapy, medication and aids, complaints can be greatly reduced.
