Rheumatism patients in Thuringia: supply shortage threatens health!

Rheumatism patients in Thuringia: supply shortage threatens health!

In the city of Gera, Thuringia, everything is currently centered around an important topic: the care of rheumatism sufferers. The Thuringia Rheumatism League is sounding the alarm and sees significant gaps in the supply of healing therapies. Rheumatism, which represents over 100 inflammatory autoimmune diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis, is painful and, bitter as it is, incurable. But it can be treated – that’s for sure. Particularly noteworthy are therapies such as water aerobics, which help those affected to maintain the mobility of their joints.

Unfortunately, there has been a lack of access to rehabilitation clinics equipped with therapeutic pools for years. The closures of public swimming pools, as is currently the case in Gera and Suhl, are also affecting patient-friendly offerings. “There is something going on,” says the Thuringian league president Kerstin Keding and warns that the health of those affected by rheumatism could worsen. You don't need to think long about the consequences: more frequent visits to the doctor and even hospital stays can be the unpleasant consequence.

The diversity of rheumatic diseases

Rheumatism includes not only arthritis, but also many other chronic diseases that cause pain in joints or connective tissue. Experts estimate that there are at least 200 different rheumatic diseases, ranging from inflammatory diseases to non-articular conditions. Rheumatology is the medical specialty that deals with these diseases. Once thought to be the result of infectious diseases, many rheumatic disorders are now difficult to categorize.

One more reason to ensure adequate therapy support. The Rheumatism League therefore also criticizes the federal government's plans for patient control via a primary doctor system. The fear is that this will make it more difficult for rheumatism patients to access specialists. “That shouldn’t be allowed to happen!” emphasizes Keding.

Treatment options and assistance

So what can rheumatism patients do? Initial treatment steps for rheumatological diseases usually include painkillers to relieve symptoms. In more severe cases, steroids and stronger analgesics are used. A special diet can also help relieve symptoms. This could, for example, recommend low-purine foods and monitor appropriate fluid intake.

In total, the Thuringia Rheumatism League represents around 3,000 members who rely on professional support. The problem of a lack of supply not only affects Gera, but also affects the entire region. And one thing is certain: only through intensive exchange and decisive action will it be possible to improve the situation for those affected by rheumatism.

Further details and reports on the topic can be found on the websites of, among others n-tv as well as on the platform Wikipedia, where additional exciting information about rheumatic diseases can be found.

In summary, it is time to focus on the needs of rheumatism patients and sincerely hope that measures will be taken soon to enable better care. Because exercise is good - and no one should have to go without this valuable form of therapy.