The Role of a Rheumatologist in the Treatment of Rheumatic Disease:

The role of the rheumatologist is to diagnose, treat, and medically manage individuals with rheumatic disorders. Rheumatologists assume the responsibility of caring for individuals with rheumatologic disorders that are often complex. The rheumatologist interacts with the patient and family as a resource for health information and as a collaborator with other health care providers. *

What Kind of Training Do Rheumatologists Have?

After four years of medical school and three years of training in either internal medicine or pediatrics, rheumatologists devote an additional two to three years in specialized rheumatology training. Most rheumatologists who plan to treat patients choose to become board certified. Upon completion of their training, they must pass a rigorous exam conducted by the American Board of Internal Medicine to become certified.*

What Do Rheumatologists Treat?

Rheumatologists treat arthritis, certain 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.*

A Rheumatologist Assesses the Following:

• signs and symptoms of systemic involvement

• joint disorders

• need for orthopedic or corrective intervention

• need for hospitalization for medical management

• mental well-being

• level of independence

• result of advanced laboratory and radiological examinations

• necessity of referrals to other health care providers

Directions to our Office:

We are located directly across the street from Piedmont Hospital.