What exactly is rheumatology, and how do you know when a "typical" MSK issue is actually a systemic inflammatory condition?In this episode, we sit down with Jack March (@Rheumatology.Physio) to demystify rheumatology for physiotherapy students and new graduates. We dive into the "index of suspicion," the importance of comorbidities like psoriasis, and why your clinical reasoning must change when a condition is autoimmune rather than mechanical.In this video, you’ll learn:A simple definition of rheumatology for patients and students.Key screening questions: Morning stiffness, night waking, and NSAID response.The "Masqueraders": How to tell if that Achilles pain is mechanical or inflammatory.Common mistakes: Why being "too gentle" with treatment can sometimes be an error.The patient journey: Managing expectations during rheumatology referrals.Timestamps: 0:00 - Intro: Why rheumatology is complex for physios 1:24 - Defining Rheumatology: Autoimmune vs. Autoinflammatory 5:35 - Comorbidities: Fibromyalgia, EDS, and Psoriasis 12:15 - Key Screening Tools & Questions 17:25 - Clinical Reasoning: MSK vs. Systemic Issues 21:10 - Loading Tendons in Rheumatological Patients 26:50 - Common Mistakes Physios Make in Management 37:15 - Treatment Precautions & Red Flags 41:50 - Top Tips for Students & New GradsAbout Jack March: Jack is a physiotherapist who specialises in supporting patients with rheumatological conditions as well as providing educational content for healthcare professionals. He provides expert CPD and resources to help clinicians identify and manage rheumatological conditions with confidence.See below for the resources that Jack mentions in the episode:Jacks YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@TheRheumatologyPhysio Jacks Linktree (all courses and content): https://linktr.ee/rheumatology.physio Physio Matters YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@physiomatters Physio Matters Linktree: https://linktr.ee/physiomattersRelated Episodes: If you enjoyed this deep dive into clinical decision-making, be sure to check out our other podcast episodes:The Reality of Elite Sport: Trauma, High Stakes & Clinical Decisions – Explore how high-pressure environments influence clinical reasoning.Understanding IBS: symptoms, causes and clinical realities – A closer look at clinical realities in internal health.Charcot foot: the diabetic red flag all clinicians need to know – Essential knowledge for identifying critical clinical indicators.Don't forget to subscribe to ABPT Physi-ed for more evidence-based physiotherapy education and clinical reasoning support!If you found this episode helpful, please check out our other other episodes here: • Physi-ed Podcast If you found this video helpful, please like and subscribe as this really helps our channel.Please note this video is intended as a teaching and learning resource for healthcare students or professionals, and is not intended as medical advice or a substitute for clinical assessment or professional training. Please follow the guidance of your health professional or educators.[Insert your social links/website here] [Insert link to Jack’s website/resources]#Physiotherapy #Rheumatology #StudentPhysio #ClinicalReasoning #MSK #PhysioEducation