Reumahoitoa

Reumahoitoa is the Finnish term for the treatment of rheumatic diseases. It refers to the medical care and management designed to relieve pain and inflammation, prevent joint damage, preserve function, and maintain quality of life. Treatment is individualized based on the specific condition, disease activity, and patient factors, and often follows a treat-to-target approach with regular assessment and adjustment.

The core of reumahoitoa includes pharmacological and non-pharmacological strategies. Pharmacological options range from over-the-counter analgesics and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs to corticosteroids for short-term inflammation control, and disease-modifying therapies. Conventional synthetic DMARDs such as methotrexate, sulfasalazine, leflunomide, and hydroxychloroquine are commonly used, along with biological DMARDs (for example TNF inhibitors and other biologics) and targeted synthetic DMARDs (such as JAK inhibitors). Non-pharmacological measures are essential and include physical therapy, occupational therapy, structured exercise, weight management, ergonomic adjustments, and lifestyle changes. Vaccination and infection prevention are important considerations when immunosuppressive therapies are used.

A multidisciplinary team typically delivers reumahoitoa, led by a rheumatologist, and supplemented by nurses, physiotherapists, occupational therapists, and pharmacists. The approach emphasizes early diagnosis, monitoring for disease activity and treatment side effects, and shared decision-making with the patient. The overall goal is to achieve remission or low disease activity when possible, prevent disability, maintain function, and support the patient’s overall health and well-being.