Rheumatology

What is rheumatology? Rheumatology is the medical specialty that focuses on the diagnosis, treatment, and management of autoimmune and musculoskeletal diseases and conditions. Rheumatologists are physicians who specialize in caring for patients with these disorders.

You should consider seeing a rheumatologist if you experience symptoms such as joint pain, stiffness, swelling, or difficulty moving, especially if these symptoms are chronic or interfere with your daily activities. Rheumatologists can also help diagnose and manage autoimmune diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, or psoriatic arthritis.

Rheumatologists diagnose and manage a wide range of conditions, including but not limited to:

• Rheumatoid arthritis
• Osteoarthritis
• Systemic lupus erythematosus (lupus)
• Spondyloarthropathies (such as ankylosing spondylitis and psoriatic arthritis)
• Gout
• Sjögren's syndrome
• Scleroderma
• Vasculitis
• Juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA)

During your visit, the rheumatologist will review your medical history, perform a physical examination, and may order diagnostic tests such as blood tests, imaging studies (such as X-rays or MRI), or joint fluid analysis to evaluate your symptoms and identify any underlying conditions. Based on the findings, they will discuss treatment options and develop a management plan tailored to your needs.

While many rheumatic diseases are chronic and may not have a cure, they can often be effectively managed with medications, lifestyle modifications, and other therapies to control symptoms, slow disease progression, and improve quality of life. Early diagnosis and treatment are important for optimizing outcomes and preventing complications associated with these conditions.

Treatment for rheumatic diseases depends on the specific condition and severity of symptoms. It may include medications (such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs, biologic therapies), physical therapy, occupational therapy, lifestyle modifications (such as exercise, weight management), joint injections, and in some cases, surgical interventions to repair or replace damaged joints.

To manage symptoms of rheumatic diseases and improve quality of life, it's important to work closely with your rheumatologist to develop a comprehensive treatment plan that addresses your specific needs and goals. This may include taking medications as prescribed, participating in physical therapy or exercise programs, using assistive devices or orthotics to support joints, managing stress, getting enough rest, and following a healthy diet to support overall well-being.