A rheumatologist is a physician who specializes in diagnosing and treating musculoskeletal and connective-tissue diseases, such as arthritis and other similar conditions. These are often inflammatory or degenerative disorders, though some are autoimmune diseases with a heritable component. Other parts of the body can be affected as well. The goal of rheumatology is to prevent or reduce the impact of these conditions with proper analysis and care.

Rheumatologists are extensively educated, completing four years of medical or osteopathic school, a residency in internal medicine or pediatrics, and additional years of training in their specialty. Prior to practicing, they are licensed and board certified by professional governing bodies. They maintain certification throughout their careers with supplemental training and testing.

What Does a Rheumatologist Do?

Rheumatologists diagnose and treat a wide range of musculoskeletal and allied symptoms and conditions, including:

• Arthritic conditions
• Back pain
• Bursitis
• Fibromyalgia
• Gout
• Osteoporosis
• Lupus
• Myositis
• Paget’s disease
• Rheumatic fever
• Scleroderma
• Sjögren’s syndrome
• Tendinitis
• Vasculitis

They accomplish this through doctor–patient interaction, conducting physical exams, ordering tests, prescribing medications, administering injections, and arranging for specialized medical care. Rheumatologists are found in both private-office and hospital settings. Many are also involved in university-based research programs.

What Types of Rheumatologists Are There?

Rheumatologists are trained in one or more subspecialties:

• Autoimmune diseases: Specialized treatment of diseases such as lupus or scleroderma, which occur when the immune system begins attacking the body itself.
• Degenerative joint diseases: An emphasis on long-term, “wear-and-tear” conditions, such as osteoarthritis.
• Inflammatory joint diseases: Specialized treatment of inflammatory joint diseases, such as gout and psoriatic arthritis.
• Metabolic bone diseases: A focus on metabolic disorders of the skeletal system, including osteoporosis and Paget’s disease.
• Musculoskeletal disorders: Assessment and care of chronic conditions affecting the muscles and bones, such as bursitis and carpal tunnel syndrome.
• Pediatric rheumatology: Diagnosis and treatment of rheumatological conditions in children.
• Sports medicine: A focus on medical conditions with an origin in physical activity, including exercise and athletic performance.

When Should You See a Rheumatologist?

You should see a rheumatologist whenever you experience symptoms commonly associated with musculoskeletal or connective-tissue diseases, such as:

• Chronic inflammation
• Fever
• Joint swelling or pain
• Muscle weakness or fatigue
• Skin lesions or rashes
• Stiffness

You may also want to see a rheumatologist if you have a family history of autoimmune disorders, such as lupus or rheumatoid arthritis.

What Can I Expect at My Visit to a Rheumatologist?

A visit to a rheumatologist will begin like any other medical visit. He or she will conduct a physical exam, ask about your symptoms, and record your family history. As part of this process, he or she will examine your muscles, bones, and joints for swelling, stiffness, and range of motion. Your rheumatologist will also ask you lifestyle questions, for example, what your diet is like, how much you exercise, and how you deal with stress.

Your rheumatologist may diagnose your condition based on this information, or he or she may order further tests, such as blood or joint-fluid samples, an X-ray, computed tomography (CT) or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan, skin or muscle biopsies, or a bone-density test, called a DEXA scan. On confirming a diagnosis, your rheumatologist can prescribe medications or joint injections that are appropriate for your condition and arrange for additional care, such as orthotic devices and physical or occupational therapy.

If you’re experiencing symptoms or have a family medical history that concerns you, the Baptist Health rheumatology team is ready to serve. For more information, contact us at [link].

Rheumatologist FAQs

What diseases does a rheumatologist treat?

Rheumatologists treat the wide range of diseases affecting the muscles, bones, joints, and connective tissues of the body. These conditions are frequently inflammatory or degenerative in nature, or the result of an autoimmune disorder, which may have a partial genetic cause.

Does seeing a rheumatologist require a referral?

This depends largely on the type of insurance or healthcare coverage that you have. Many plans require referrals from a primary care physician to see specialists, including rheumatologists, though some do not.

Are rheumatologists also surgeons?

Rheumatologists are not surgeons. They diagnose and treat inflammatory and other diseases of the musculoskeletal system, typically by non-surgical means.