Rheumatism

Rheumatism, a term often conflated with rheumatoid arthritis, encompasses a myriad of disorders affecting connective tissues, notably bones, cartilage, and adipose tissue. In the realm of Western medicine, rheumatism is predominantly viewed as an autoimmune disorder, wherein the immune system aberrantly targets healthy tissues, a perspective substantiated by clinical studies and the National Institute of Health (NIH). In contrast, Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) categorizes it as a Bi syndrome, characterized by the obstruction of blood and Qi, often attributed to external pathogenic factors like wind, cold, and dampness. This syndrome manifests as joint pain, swelling, and restricted mobility. These perspectives are further corroborated by FDA guidelines and USDA research, emphasizing the necessity for a multidisciplinary approach in treatment and management (WHO, Harvard Medical School Clinical Research Programs).