Rheumatology

What is a Rheumatologist?

A rheumatologist is a specialist physician who has expertise in diagnosing and treating arthritis and other musculoskeletal conditions and autoimmune diseases.

Arthritis mainly affects the joints while other musculoskeletal conditions can also affect the joints, bones, muscles, tendons and ligaments. Autoimmune diseases also commonly affect the musculoskeletal system, but many of the conditions rheumatologists treat may affect the rest of the body, including eyes, skin, internal organs and the nervous system.

Some common rheumatology conditions include:

• Rheumatoid Arthritis

• Osteoarthritis

• Ankylosing Spondylitis

• Gout

• Osteoporosis

• Generalised Pain Condition

• Scleroderma

• Sjogren’s syndrome

• ANCA Associated vasculitis

• Psoriatic Arthritis

• Systemic Lupus Erythematosus

• Myositis

How is it diagnosed and treated?

Your rheumatologist is specially trained to do the work necessary to investigate the cause of your symptoms. He or she will usually ask you to explain the history of the problem and will undertake a physical examination. Additional investigations such as blood tests, X-rays and scans may also be needed.

Treatment plans vary from individual to individual depending upon the condition and its severity, but it can range from medication to help reduce inflammation and swelling of joints, occupational or physical therapy, complementary and alternative medicine, or in cases where those treatments are unsuccessful in alleviating or preventing symptoms surgery may be required.