RHEUMATOLOGIST

A rheumatologist is a medical doctor who specializes in treating rheumatic conditions and diseases. Typically an internist or pediatrician, rheumatologists analyze, diagnose, and treat the different illnesses that affect your joints, bones, and muscles. Rheumatologists often act as long-term health care providers for those facing serious or chronic rheumatic disease.

What Qualifications Do Rheumatologists Have?

Rheumatologists are highly skilled in the area of rheumatic disease. They must complete four years of pre-medical training at college or university and continue on to complete four more years of training at medical school. They must then complete three years in internal or pediatric medicine. In order to become qualified rheumatologists, they must then complete two to three years of specialized education and training in rheumatic disease and treatment. In order to practice their profession, rheumatologists must pass a rigorous exam and become certified by the American Board of Internal Medicine, or a similar governing body in their country of practice.

What Does a Rheumatologist Treat?

Rheumatologists specialize in treating rheumatic diseases – but what exactly are rheumatic diseases? Rheumatic illnesses are those that affect the rheumatic system, specifically the joints, bones, and muscles. Rheumatologists are most commonly associated with arthritis diagnosis and treatment, although they also help treat a number of other rheumatic conditions, including:

• musculoskeletal pain
• osteoporosis
• osteoarthritis
• gout
• lupus and other autoimmune diseases

How Can A Rheumatologist Help People with Fibromyalgia?

Though fibromyalgia is not actually a type of arthritis, it is considered a rheumatic disease because it affects the joints and muscles. A rheumatologist is often one of the best practitioners to consult if you think that you have fibromyalgia. Unlike other health care providers, rheumatologists are very familiar with the signs and symptoms of fibromyalgia. They are able to rule out other rheumatic diseases that may mimic fibromyalgia. They are excellent when it comes to dealing with all-over, widespread pain. Rheumatologists also have more knowledge and diagnostic tests at their disposal to help find the cause for fibromyalgia symptoms, such as morning stiffness and joint immobility. Rheumatologists often play a team leader role when it comes to managing fibromyalgia, and can direct information to your other health care providers.

What Will A Rheumatologist Examine?

If you decide to visit with a rheumatologist, she will likely examine different aspects of your bones, muscles, and joints. In particular, she will look for:

• areas of muscle pain
• tender points
• redness and swelling
• stiffness
• range of motion

Tests Performed by A Rheumatologist

In order to help form a diagnosis, rheumatologists rely on a variety of diagnostic test procedures. These procedures help them to analyze specific areas of your joints and muscles. Some commonly-performed tests include:

• x-rays
• joint ultrasound
• MRI (magnetic resonance imaging)
• electromyography
• joint aspiration and fluid analysis
• bone density tests

What To Expect When You Visit a Rheumatologist

If you choose to visit a rheumatologist, you may be a little apprehensive about the procedures he will perform. Here are a few things to expect when you get to the office:

• Your rheumatologist will ask you about your medical history and your current symptoms.


• He will likely perform a physical examination. He will examine your joints, looking for areas of swelling or deformity. He will also test your muscle stamina, strength, and range of motion.


• Your rheumatologist may suggest performing some diagnostic tests, including blood tests, j oint aspiration, and imaging tests.


• Your rheumatologist will likely suggest a treatment regimen to help you deal with your symptoms. Treatment is often multi-faceted, and may include the use of pain medication along with physical therapy and exercise.

Finding a Rheumatologist

In order to see a rheumatologist, it is likely that you will require a referral from your general health practitioner or another medical doctor. She may be able to recommend a good rheumatologist who practices in your area. To find a rheumatologist in your area, you can also contact your local College of Rheumatology.

Our Doctor Database consists of 5974 doctors in 80 countries worldwide that specialize in treating people with FM and/or CFS/ME, many of which are Rheumatologists.