What is rheumatology doctor

Before they can start treating these conditions, a rheumatologist must fulfill the following education and training requirements, according to the American College of Rheumatology :. After a person finishes a rheumatology fellowship program, they must pass a board examination and receive their certificate to practice rheumatology. Rheumatologists must participate in continuing education courses throughout their careers. A rheumatologist can choose to treat specific rheumatic conditions, or they can narrow their focus to a particular area, or subspecialty, within rheumatology.

Subspecialties in the field of rheumatology include:. Rheumatologists can treat autoimmune and inflammatory conditions that affect the joints, tendons, ligaments, bones, muscles, and blood vessels vasculitis. Rheumatologists perform examinations and procedures that help them diagnose and treat rheumatic conditions. A rheumatologist usually performs a complete physical exam when they see a person for the first time, or when they want to monitor the effects of a current treatment program.

They will spend extra time examining areas where people report feeling pain or stiffness. They might ask a person to bend, flex, or stretch these areas. They will also examine joints on both sides of the body to compare size, intensity of inflammation , range of motion, and function. People with arthritis can experience symptoms in one or more joints on one side of the body, while others may notice pain and stiffness in one or more joints on both sides of the body.

Rheumatologists diagnose systemic inflammatory diseases and musculoskeletal conditions. A rheumatologist can also diagnose conditions that cause bone or cartilage loss, including osteoporosis and osteoarthritis. A primary care doctor or rheumatologist can use different imaging tests to look for signs of joint damage. Some imaging tests they may conduct include:.

Laboratory testing involves taking samples of blood, urine, or joint fluid and sending these samples to a laboratory for further analysis. A rheumatologist can use lab test results to identify signs of inflammation and infections, such as higher-than-normal levels of inflammatory compounds, antibodies, or white blood cells. In recent years, researchers have also discovered several genetic markers associated with ankylosing spondylitis.

Rheumatologists can suggest and provide treatments for many rheumatic conditions. They can also offer consultation on many cases. A rheumatologist can treat joint inflammation and pain by either injecting an anti-inflammatory medication, such as corticosteroid, directly into the affected joint or by aspirating the joint.

When a rheumatologist aspirates a joint, they use a needle attached to a syringe to remove excess joint fluid. The rheumatologist will review the results of any prior testing. The rheumatologist may order additional laboratory tests, imaging studies X-ray, ultrasound, CT scan, MRI , or other tests to assess for additional potential clues to the possible cause of your musculoskeletal problem.

Some rheumatic diseases can be challenging to diagnose and may require several visits with your rheumatologist. During follow-up appointments, rheumatologists may treat reoccurring conditions or talk with patients about medications, coping mechanisms, techniques for preventing disability or regaining function, and ways to improve their quality of life. Typically, the insurance co-pay is higher to see a specialist than a primary care physician.

You may be surprised to learn that specialized care may save time and money in the long-term, as well as reduce the severity of the disease. A rheumatologist has specialized training to spot clues in the history, physical exam, and test results that can lead to earlier diagnosis. The rheumatologist is knowledgeable about testing that may reduce unnecessary procedures and save you money. This information is provided for general education only.

Individuals should consult a qualified health care provider for professional medical advice, diagnosis and treatment of a medical or health condition.

What is a Rheumatologist in Spanish. Do you need help? Call Help Get more information. What is a Rheumatologist? How is a rheumatologist trained? Where do rheumatologists work? When should I see a rheumatologist?

What should I expect from my rheumatology visit? What should I bring to my first rheumatology visit? It is vital that you ensure that as much information is available to the rheumatologist on your first visit as possible. An up-to-date medication list with the specific dosages you are taking include a list of medications you have already tried to reduce duplication of prior treatments. Our practice integrates excellent medical care with comprehensive services.

Each of our four offices has a full-service laboratory, x-ray facilities, DEXA, infusion center, and physical therapy department. This allows physicians to personally review and provide test results to patients in a timely manner.

Certified medical assistants, physical therapists, nurses including infusion nurses and our triage nurse team , x-ray technologists and front office staff, work with physicians to form the patient care team at ARA. Together they coordinate all diagnostic work and treatment. This gives patients the comfort of knowing there is always someone who can answer questions and provide assistance. We offer patients the opportunity to access the most recent and innovative technologies such as musculoskeletal ultrasound to assist in diagnosis and treatment and by maintaining an active clinical research program that participates in national trials to evaluate new medications for the treatment of arthritis, osteoporosis and a variety of rheumatic diseases.

The complex and changeable nature of many rheumatic diseases often requires ongoing assessment and evaluation. Patients benefit from the collective expertise of ARA physicians who meet frequently to discuss patient cases, new drug treatment protocols and promising research. In addition, based on the requirements of your treatment plan, our rheumatologists coordinate your care with the other professionals comprising your healthcare team.

Our goal is to reduce pain and maximize function. At Arthritis and Rheumatism Associates, PC, we take pride in delivering exceptional care with the courtesy and respect you should expect. We know there are choices in selecting a physician or healthcare service and look forward to being your choice.