What is a Rheumatologist?
What is a Rheumatologist?
A rheumatologist is a specialized internal medicine or pediatric doctor who treats conditions causing chronic pain, swelling, and inflammation in the joints and connective tissues. Unlike orthopedic doctors, rheumatologists do not perform surgery; instead, they manage diseases using targeted medications, lifestyle changes, and joint injections.
Common Conditions Treated
Rheumatoid arthritis: An autoimmune disease where the body attacks joint linings, causing painful swelling.
Systemic lupus erythematosus (Lupus): An autoimmune condition affecting joints, skin, kidneys, and other organs.
Gout: A painful form of inflammatory arthritis caused by uric acid crystal buildup.
Osteoarthritis: Joint damage from wear and tear over time.
Psoriatic arthritis: Joint inflammation linked with the skin condition psoriasis.
How Disorders Are Diagnosed
Physical exam: Checking your joints for warmth, swelling, and range of motion.
Blood tests: Screening for markers of inflammation and specific autoimmune antibodies.
Imaging studies: Using X-rays, ultrasounds, or MRIs to view joint or bone damage.