Who is a Rheumatologist?

Rheumatology is a medical specialty that deals with the diagnosis and treatment of over 200 different rheumatic diseases. Rheumatic diseases affect bones, muscles, joints as well as internal organs such as brain, kidneys, lungs and blood vessels at times. These complex rheumatic diseases can be managed only by experts in rheumatology called rheumatologists. Some of the diseases treated by rheumatologists include osteoporosis and certain autoimmune diseases such as lupus, arthritis, musculoskeletal pain, and gout.

Rheumatologists also treat soft tissue problems related to sports such as tendinitis. This specialty is interrelated with physiotherapy, physical medicine, and rehabilitation of the disabled. These specialists inform the patients, their family and community about the various rheumatic diseases and teach them coping mechanisms to deal with a long-term chronic rheumatic disease. Rheumatologists provide diagnosis, treatment, and management of the disorder as well as ways to prevent disability and regain functions, ultimately helping patients to improve their quality of life.