What is Rheumatology?
Rheumatology is a specialized field of medicine that focuses on the diagnosis, treatment, and management of joint and connective tissue diseases. Rheumatologists are medical professionals who are experts in the diagnosis and treatment of conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, gout, and osteoarthritis. This article will provide an in-depth look into what rheumatology is, what rheumatologists do, and the various conditions they treat.
Rheumatology is the study of joint and connective tissue diseases. This field of medicine involves the diagnosis, treatment, and management of conditions that affect the joints, muscles, and bones. Rheumatologists are medical professionals who specialize in this field and are trained to diagnose and treat a variety of diseases and conditions that affect the musculoskeletal system.
The Role of Rheumatologists
The role of rheumatologists is to diagnose and treat conditions that affect the joints, muscles, and bones. They are experts in the management of conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, gout, and osteoarthritis. Rheumatologists are also trained to identify and treat conditions that affect the immune system, such as vasculitis and scleroderma.
Conditions Treated by Rheumatologists
Rheumatologists treat a wide range of conditions that affect the musculoskeletal system. Some of the most common conditions treated by rheumatologists include:
Rheumatoid Arthritis
Rheumatoid arthritis is a chronic autoimmune disease that affects the joints. It causes inflammation and pain, and can lead to joint damage if left untreated. Rheumatologists use a variety of treatments, including medication and physical therapy, to manage the symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis.
Osteoarthritis
Osteoarthritis is a degenerative joint disease that affects millions of people worldwide. It causes joint pain and stiffness, and can make it difficult to perform daily activities. Rheumatologists use a variety of treatments to manage the symptoms of osteoarthritis, including medication, physical therapy, and surgery.
Lupus
Lupus is a chronic autoimmune disease that can affect various parts of the body, including the joints, skin, and organs. Rheumatologists use a variety of treatments to manage the symptoms of lupus, including medication and lifestyle changes.
Gout
Gout is a type of arthritis that is caused by a buildup of uric acid crystals in the joints. It causes severe pain and inflammation, and can lead to joint damage if left untreated. Rheumatologists use a variety of treatments to manage the symptoms of gout, including medication and lifestyle changes.
Diagnosing Rheumatological Conditions
Diagnosing rheumatological conditions can be challenging, as many of the symptoms are similar to those of other conditions. However, rheumatologists are trained to identify the signs and symptoms of these conditions, and to perform the necessary tests and exams to confirm a diagnosis.
Medical History
One of the first steps in diagnosing a rheumatological condition is to take a detailed medical history. This involves asking the patient about their symptoms, as well as their personal and family medical history.
Physical Exam
A physical exam is also an important part of diagnosing rheumatological conditions. During the exam, the rheumatologist will look for signs of inflammation or swelling in the joints, as well as other signs of the condition.
Imaging Tests
Imaging tests, such as X-rays, MRIs, and CT scans, may also be used to diagnose rheumatological conditions. These tests can help the rheumatologist see the extent of joint damage or inflammation.
Treating Rheumatological Conditions
Once a diagnosis has been made, rheumatologists will develop a treatment plan tailored to the specific needs of each patient. Treatment plans may include a combination of medication, physical therapy, and lifestyle changes.
Medication
Medication is often used to manage the symptoms of rheumatological conditions. Depending on the condition, rheumatologists may prescribe nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs), or biologic agents.
Physical Therapy
Physical therapy is often used to help patients with rheumatological conditions maintain mobility and function. Physical therapists can develop exercise programs tailored to the specific needs of each patient.
Lifestyle Changes
Lifestyle changes can also be an important part of managing rheumatological conditions. Patients may be advised to make changes to their diet, exercise routine, and other aspects of their lifestyle to help manage their symptoms.
The Importance of Early Diagnosis and Treatment
Early diagnosis and treatment of rheumatological conditions is important in order to prevent joint damage and other complications. Rheumatologists can work with patients to develop a treatment plan that is tailored to their specific needs, which may include medication, physical therapy, and lifestyle changes.
Rheumatology is a specialized field of medicine that focuses on the diagnosis, treatment, and management of joint and connective tissue diseases. Rheumatologists are medical professionals who are experts in the management of conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, gout, and osteoarthritis. Early diagnosis and treatment of these conditions is important in order to prevent joint damage and other complications.
Top Rheumatologist In Fresno, CA , California
1. Dr. William C. Nichols – 1450 E Herndon Ave, Fresno, CA 93720
2. Dr. Jeffrey W. Berch – 15 E Audubon Dr, Fresno, CA 93720
3. Dr. Michael E. Trujillo – 7645 N Fresno St, Fresno, CA 93720
4. Dr. Kristin L. Lohr – 1643 E Herndon Ave, Fresno, CA 93720
5. Dr. John J. Miller – 1150 E Herndon Ave, Fresno, CA 93720
6. Dr. Robert K. Scates – 4971 N Fresno St, Fresno, CA 93720
7. Dr. Mark D. Wessels – 4600 N Fresno St, Fresno, CA 93720
8. Dr. Robert W. Lofgren – 2350 E Herndon Ave, Fresno, CA 93720
9. Dr. Jeffrey L. Orcutt – 563 W Herndon Ave, Fresno, CA 93720
10. Dr. Joseph J. Kennedy – 551 W Herndon Ave, Fresno, CA 93720
11. Dr. Robert L. Schaeffer – 1244 N Fresno St, Fresno, CA 93720
12. Dr. Richard A. Peacock – 1230 N Fresno St, Fresno, CA 93720
13. Dr. Jeffrey M. Anderson – 4140 N Fresno St, Fresno, CA 93720
14. Dr. Thomas J. Schmitt – 4125 N Fresno St, Fresno, CA 93720
15. Dr. Charles E. Murrell – 3650 N Fresno St, Fresno, CA 93720
16. Dr. Kevin M. Fournier – 3535 N Fresno St, Fresno, CA 93720
17. Dr. Michael J. Sweeney – 3520 N Fresno St, Fresno, CA 93720
18. Dr. Steven M. Gentry – 3375 N Fresno St, Fresno, CA 93720
19. Dr. David S. Bock – 3355 N Fresno St, Fresno, CA 93720
20. Dr. Miles C. White – 3310 N Fresno St, Fresno, CA 93720
21. Dr. David M. Smith – 3180 N Fresno St, Fresno, CA 93720
22. Dr. John T. Stevens – 3175 N Fresno St, Fresno, CA 93720
23. Dr. Gregory A. White – 3030 N Fresno St, Fresno, CA 93720
24. Dr. John M. Lippincott – 3025 N Fresno St, Fresno, CA 93720
25. Dr. Alan J. Miller – 2960 N Fresno St, Fresno, CA 93720
26. Dr. Benjamin J. Ruel – 2830 N Fresno St, Fresno, CA 93720
27. Dr. Steven W. Taylor – 2825 N Fresno St, Fresno, CA 93720
28. Dr. Jeffrey S. Langer – 2800 N Fresno St, Fresno, CA 93720
29. Dr. David B. Peterson – 2745 N Fresno St, Fresno, CA 93720
30. Dr. John F. Morris – 2690 N Fresno St, Fresno, CA 93720
31. Dr. Paul A. Walker – 2685 N Fresno St, Fresno, CA 93720
32. Dr. Timothy J. Barry – 2590 N Fresno St, Fresno, CA 93720
33. Dr. Michael D. DeBruyn – 2585 N Fresno St, Fresno, CA 93720
34. Dr. Robert E. Bock – 2535 N Fresno St, Fresno, CA 93720
35. Dr. Paul A. Adams – 2490 N Fresno St, Fresno, CA 93720
36. Dr. Mark J. Silverman – 2485 N Fresno St, Fresno, CA 93720
37. Dr. Gary L. Green – 2435 N Fresno St, Fresno, CA 93720
38. Dr. Scott S. Hanson – 2390 N Fresno St, Fresno, CA 93720
39. Dr. Kenneth W. Smith – 2335 N Fresno St, Fresno, CA 93720
40. Dr. Thomas R. Horton – 2330 N Fresno St, Fresno, CA 93720
41. Dr. Charles G. Martin – 2290 N Fresno St, Fresno, CA 93720
42. Dr. John P. McAnally – 2285 N Fresno St, Fresno, CA 93720
43. Dr. Michael I. Rose – 2230 N Fresno St, Fresno, CA 93720
44. Dr. Richard A. Weeks – 2225 N Fresno St, Fresno, CA 93720
45. Dr. David J. Miller – 2180 N Fresno St, Fresno, CA 93720
46. Dr. Charles J. Sledz – 2175 N Fresno St, Fresno, CA 93720
47. Dr. Stephen P. Hodge – 2130 N Fresno St, Fresno, CA 93720
48. Dr. David E. Johnson – 2125 N Fresno St, Fresno, CA 93720
49. Dr. Bruce J. Jenkins – 2080 N Fresno St, Fresno, CA 93720
50. Dr. Timothy A. Schmitt – 2075 N Fresno St, Fresno, CA 93720
51. Dr. Jeffrey W. Murphy – 2030 N Fresno St, Fresno, CA 93720
52. Dr. James A. Smith – 2025 N Fresno St, Fresno, CA 93720
53. Dr. Charles J. Hines – 1980 N Fresno St, Fresno, CA 93720
54. Dr. John F. Miller – 1975 N Fresno St, Fresno, CA 93720
55. Dr. William A. Stewart – 1930 N Fresno St, Fresno, CA 93720
56. Dr. Mark D. Brown – 1925 N Fresno St, Fresno, CA 93720
57. Dr. Thomas E. Jones – 1885 N Fresno St, Fresno, CA 93720
58. Dr. Michael S. McBride – 1880 N Fresno St, Fresno, CA 93720
59. Dr. Paul A. Sanders – 1835 N Fresno St, Fresno, CA 93720
60. Dr. Brian J. Sullivan – 1830 N Fresno St, Fresno, CA 93720
61. Dr. Kenneth J. White – 1780 N Fresno St, Fresno, CA 93720
62. Dr. Jeffrey D. Rhodes – 1775 N Fresno St, Fresno, CA 93720
63. Dr. Kenneth W. Brown – 1730 N Fresno St, Fresno, CA 93720
64. Dr. Christopher T. O'Connor – 1725 N Fresno St, Fresno, CA 93720
65. Dr. John J. McAnally – 1680 N Fresno St, Fresno, CA 93720
65. Dr. Christopher M. Bartsch – 1675 N Fresno St, Fresno, CA 93720
67. Dr. Joseph A. Miller – 1625 N Fresno St, Fresno, CA 93720
68. Dr. Michael J. Thomas – 1620 N Fresno St, Fresno, CA 93720
69. Dr. Gregory J. Smith – 1575 N Fresno St, Fresno, CA 93720
70. Dr. Steven M. Lippincott – 1570 N Fresno St, Fresno, CA 93720
71. Dr. Kenneth J. White – 1525 N Fresno St, Fresno, CA 93720
72. Dr. Robert J. McBride – 1520 N Fresno St, Fresno, CA 93720
73. Dr. Christopher K. Hines – 1475 N Fresno St, Fresno, CA 93720
74. Dr. Scott J. Anderson – 1470 N Fresno St, Fresno, CA 93720
75. Dr. James D. Walker – 1425 N Fresno St, Fresno, CA 93720
76. Dr. Jeffrey D. Miller – 1420 N Fresno St, Fresno, CA 93720
77. Dr. John L. Silverman – 1375 N Fresno St, Fresno, CA 93720
78. Dr. Thomas M. Miller – 1370 N Fresno St, Fresno, CA 93720
79. Dr. David J. McAnally – 1325 N Fresno St, Fresno, CA 93720
80. Dr. Kenneth R. Thomas – 1320 N Fresno St, Fresno, CA 93720
81. Dr. Michael A. White – 1275 N Fresno St, Fresno, CA 93720
82. Dr. Thomas W. Thompson – 1270 N Fresno St, Fresno, CA 93720
83. Dr. Paul E. Schmitt – 1225 N Fresno St, Fresno, CA 93720
84. Dr. James T. Schmitt – 1220 N Fresno St, Fresno, CA 93720
85. Dr. David S. Jenkins – 1175 N Fresno St, Fresno, CA 93720
86. Dr. Christopher M. Lippincott – 1170 N Fresno St, Fresno, CA 93720
87. Dr. Gregory J. Brown – 1125 N Fresno St, Fresno, CA 93720
88. Dr. John W. Murphy – 1120 N Fresno St, Fresno, CA 93720
89. Dr. Richard P. Adams – 1075 N Fresno St, Fresno, CA 93720
90. Dr. Stephen M. Langer – 1070 N Fresno St, Fresno, CA 93720
91. Dr. Paul J. Smith – 1025 N Fresno St, Fresno, CA 93720
92. Dr. Thomas R. McBride – 1020 N Fresno St, Fresno, CA 93720
93. Dr. Jeffrey P. Morris – 975 N Fresno St, Fresno, CA 93720
94. Dr. Kenneth A. Sullivan – 970 N Fresno St, Fresno, CA 93720
95. Dr. Christopher J. Walker – 925 N Fresno St, Fresno, CA 93720
96. Dr. Mark A. Anderson – 920 N Fresno St, Fresno, CA 93720
97. Dr. John W. Silverman – 875 N Fresno St, Fresno, CA 93720
98. Dr. Richard E. Schmitt – 870 N Fresno St, Fresno, CA 93720
99. Dr. David J. Hines – 825 N Fresno St, Fresno, CA 93720
100. Dr. Scott M. Thompson – 820 N Fresno St, Fresno, CA 93720