Physical medicine and rheumatology

The Department of Physical Medicine and Rheumatology offers inpatient and ambulatory assessments and treatment, as well as expert reports and counter-expertise. We work very closely with the other disciplines at Balgrist University Hospital to ensure the best possible treatment for our patients.

Appointments only with a doctor's referral

Please note that we can only make appointments for patients with a doctor's referral. If you have this referral, you will receive an appointment in our clinic as soon as possible. Thank you for your understanding.

Competences and offer

Diagnosis and treatment covers all non-surgical aspects of musculoskeletal conditions, whether they be inflammatory, degenerative or soft tissue diseases. The department runs an interdisciplinary pain clinic and an osteoporosis clinic, as well as having its own physiotherapy department.

The department focuses on

Spondyloarthritis (ankylosing spondylitis, psoriatic arthritis, etc.)
Inflammatory arthritis (e. g. rheumatoid arthritis)
Diseases of the spine
Degenerative joint diseases
Osteoporosis
Complex regional pain syndrome (Sudeck’s atrophy)
Manual medicine Diagnostic
Ultrasonography

Multimodal Pain Therapy (MMPT)

What is the aim of MMPT?

The focus during your stay is on improving functionality in daily life, increasing physical fitness (e. g. strength, stamina, mobility), developing strategies for managing pain and identifying resources.

What does MMPT include?

Rheumatology
medication and medical support
Physiotherapy
individual therapy, medical training therapy (MMPT),walking outdoors, water therapy, progressive relaxation, massage, lymphological physiotherapy, “understanding pain”
Occupational therapy
supporting person-centered activities, specialized hand therapy (splint adjustment), ergonomics related to work and household, advice on available resources
Psychology
individual psychological discussions, pain hypnosis (facultative)
Welfare service
individual discussions

Qualifications from professional training institutions

Physical medicine and rehabilitation FMH (Swiss Medical Association) A (2 years)
Rheumatology FMH B (2 years)
European Board of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation (2 years)