Clockwork spine, symbolizing time and the evolution of rheumatology.

The Evolving Soul of Rheumatology: A 25-Year Reflection

Samir D’Costa in Health & Wellness June 2025 • 3 min read.

"How a medical specialty shifted focus and embraced its unique character."

As the chapter closes on one editorship and a new one begins for Rheumatology, it’s a fitting time to reflect on the essence of this medical field. Published by Oxford University Press (OUP), Rheumatology holds a unique position among specialty journals.

Rooted in history, with OUP's license to print books dating back to Queen Elisabeth I, the journal has evolved significantly. Today, OUP promotes excellence in research and education worldwide.

OUP brings a wealth of resources, including a range of medical specialty journals, international reach, and innovative digital capabilities. These have been crucial in transforming Rheumatology and boosting its accessibility.

From Physical Medicine to Patient-Centered Care

Clockwork spine, symbolizing time and the evolution of rheumatology.

Rheumatology's journey has been one of many names and focuses. Starting as Annals of Physical Medicine, it transitioned through Rheumatology and Physical Medicine, Rheumatology and Rehabilitation, and the British Journal of Rheumatology, before settling on Rheumatology.

As the flagship journal of the British Society for Rheumatology (BSR), Rheumatology benefits from the BSR's experience in galvanizing talent, organizing events, and fostering international partnerships.

Professional infrastructure.
International reach.
BSR services.

The BSR, in turn, benefits from the journal's stature and impact factor. This partnership has fostered growth, with further advancements on the horizon. While running the journal requires specialist skills, long-term success depends on a global vision.

Embracing Change and the Human Element

The digital age presents both opportunities and challenges. Rheumatology has embraced these changes, including open access publishing, while maintaining its commitment to quality.

The specialty has shifted from orthopaedic surgery and rehabilitation to a more biomedical model, yet it hasn't forgotten the importance of the psychosocial aspects of disease. This blend shapes its unique character.

The journal's success is thanks to the teamwork and dedication of many individuals, including editorial staff, associate editors, and the BSR. As editors come and go, the soul of Rheumatology continues to evolve and grow.

About this Article -

This article was crafted using a human-AI hybrid and collaborative approach. AI assisted our team with initial drafting, research insights, identifying key questions, and image generation. Our human editors guided topic selection, defined the angle, structured the content, ensured factual accuracy and relevance, refined the tone, and conducted thorough editing to deliver helpful, high-quality information.See our About page for more information.

This article is based on research published under:

DOI-LINK: 10.1093/rheumatology/key355, Alternate LINK

Title: The Soul Of Rheumatology

Subject: Pharmacology (medical)

Journal: Rheumatology

Publisher: Oxford University Press (OUP)

Authors: Jaap Van Laar

Published: 2018-11-27

Everything You Need To Know

How has the focus of Rheumatology changed over time?

Rheumatology, originally known as Annals of Physical Medicine, has undergone a significant evolution. It transitioned through various names such as Rheumatology and Physical Medicine, Rheumatology and Rehabilitation, and the British Journal of Rheumatology before settling on Rheumatology. This shift reflects a broader transformation in the field's focus and approach to patient care. The changes in the name of the journal mirror the shifting focus of the medical specialty itself.

Why is the patient-centered, biomedical approach important in Rheumatology?

Rheumatology has become increasingly patient-centered, adopting a biomedical approach that considers the psychosocial aspects of the disease. This evolution is significant because it moves beyond purely physical treatments to encompass the holistic well-being of patients. This patient-centered approach recognizes the importance of understanding and addressing the emotional and social impact of rheumatic diseases.

What is the significance of Oxford University Press (OUP) in relation to Rheumatology?

Oxford University Press (OUP) plays a crucial role in the advancement of Rheumatology. OUP provides resources, including a range of medical specialty journals, international reach, and innovative digital capabilities. These have been essential in transforming Rheumatology, enhancing its accessibility, and promoting its global impact. This support is important because it helps disseminate research, facilitates education, and fosters collaboration within the field.

What is the relationship between Rheumatology and the British Society for Rheumatology (BSR)?

The British Society for Rheumatology (BSR) is the flagship journal of Rheumatology. The BSR's experience in galvanizing talent, organizing events, and fostering international partnerships supports the journal's growth and influence. This partnership is mutually beneficial, with the BSR benefiting from the journal's stature and impact factor. The relationship allows for advancements within the field.

How has Rheumatology adapted to the digital age?

The digital age has presented both opportunities and challenges for Rheumatology. The journal has embraced these changes by adopting open access publishing, while maintaining its commitment to quality. Open access enhances the accessibility of research findings, allowing a wider audience to benefit from the advancements in the field, furthering global collaborations, and accelerating innovation.