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. 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.
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.
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’s 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.
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 upon the help of many skilled professionals including nurses,
physical and occupational therapists, psychologists and social workers. Team
work is important, since 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.
Sep 7, 2010
