Rheumatology
Frequently Asked Questions
[Source: American College of Rheumatology]
- What is a rheumatologist?
- What kind of training do rheumatologists have?
- What do rheumatologists treat?
- When should you see a rheumatologist?
- How does the rheumatologist work with other health care professionals?
What is a rheumatologist?
A rheumatologist is an internist or pediatrician who is qualified by additional training and experience in the diagnosis and treatment of arthritis and other diseases of the joints, muscles and bones. Many rheumatologists conduct research to determine the cause of and better treatments for these disabling and sometimes fatal diseases.
Back to top
What kind of training do rheumatologists have?
After four years of medical school and three or four years of training in either internal medicine or pediatrics, rheumatologists devote an additional two to three years to specialized rheumatology training. Most rheumatologists who plan to treat patients are certified by the American Board of Internal Medicine in both internal medicine and rheumatology. In order to be certified they must pass rigorous examinations in both fields. All PAMF rheumatologists are board certified in internal medicine and rheumatology.
Back to top
What do rheumatologists treat?
Rheumatologists treat all forms of arthritis, autoimmune diseases, musculoskeletal pain disorders and osteoporosis. There are more than 100 types of these diseases, including rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, gout, lupus, back pain, osteoporosis, fibromyalgia and tendonitis. Some of these are very serious diseases that can be difficult to diagnose and treat.
Back to top
When should you see a rheumatologist?
If musculoskeletal pains are not severe or disabling and last just a few days, it makes sense to give the problem a reasonable chance to be resolved. But sometimes, pain in the joints, muscles or bones is severe or persists for more than a few days. At that point, you should see your physician.
Many types of rheumatic diseases are not easily identified in the early stages. Rheumatologists are specially trained to do the detective work necessary to discover the cause of swelling and pain. It is important to determine a correct diagnosis early so that appropriate treatment can begin early. Some musculoskeletal disorders respond best to treatment in the early stages of the disease.
Because some rheumatic diseases are complex, one visit to a rheumatologist may not be enough to determine a diagnosis and course of treatment. These diseases often change or evolve over time. Rheumatologists work closely with patients to identify the problem and design an individualized treatment program.
Back to top
How does the rheumatologist work with other health care professionals?
The role the rheumatologist plays in health care depends on several factors and needs. Typically the rheumatologist works with other physicians, sometimes acting as a consultant to advise another physician about a specific diagnosis and treatment plan. In other situations, the rheumatologist acts as a manager, relying on the help of many skilled professionals including nurses, physical and occupational therapists, psychologists and social workers. Teamwork is important, because musculoskeletal disorders are chronic. Health care professionals can help people with musculoskeletal diseases and their families cope with the changes the diseases cause in their lives.
Back to top
