Rheumatic and Musculoskeletal Diseases

Arthritis

There are several connective tissue diseases. However, arthritis is the most common one rheumatologists treat.

Joint pain and stiffness are common symptoms of arthritis.

There are more than 100 types of arthritis. Here are some of the most common types: 

Osteoarthritis

The most common type of arthritis is osteoarthritis, which affects millions of Americans. Osteoarthritis is a degenerative disease that occurs when the cartilage begins to wear down. This can cause pain and stiffness in your joints.

Rheumatoid Arthritis

Rheumatoid arthritis is one of the most common types of systemic autoimmune diseases. It causes the body’s immune system to attack the joints. This can lead to inflammation, pain, stiffness, and swelling. People with rheumatoid arthritis often have fatigue, fever, and general discomfort. 

Gout

Gout is a form of arthritis that affects people with high uric acid levels in their blood.

Gout can cause sudden attacks of intense pain, stiffness, swelling, redness, and heat in joints. The most common joint affected by gout is the big toe. 

Osteoporosis

Osteoporosis is a medical condition that can cause bones to become weak and brittle. This makes them more likely to break, even with minor falls or injuries.

Fibromyalgia

Fibromyalgia is a condition that causes widespread muscle pain and fatigue. People with fibromyalgia often have sleep problems, morning stiffness, headaches, depression, anxiety, and memory problems. 

Lupus

Lupus is a chronic autoimmune disease that can affect any body part. It often causes skin, joints, kidneys, heart, lungs, or brain inflammation. Lupus can also cause problems with cognition or mental health. 

Rheumatic Disease Treatment

There are a few different ways to treat rheumatic diseases, depending on the severity of the condition. Over-the-counter pain relief medication can be taken for mild cases to help ease the symptoms. If the illness is more severe, prescription medications may be necessary.

Occupational therapy or exercises may also be prescribed to help ease the pain and improve mobility. In some cases, surgery may be necessary to correct the issue.

Rheumatic Diseases Health Care Providers

The patient's primary care physician should be able to determine when to see a specialist.

Rheumatologists are the leading specialists who treat rheumatic diseases.

Other medical specialties that help treat rheumatic and autoimmune conditions are orthopedists.

Occupational therapists are also increasingly used to treat musculoskeletal conditions and rheumatic diseases.

You Don't Have to Suffer in Silence!

You must see a rheumatologist if you are experiencing any signs or symptoms associated with rheumatic diseases.

Don’t hesitate to call Putnam County Hospital internal medicine at 765-301-7300 for a physical exam.

All our rheumatologists are board certified and have several years of specialized training in treating rheumatic diseases. With four years at undergraduate school, four years in medical school, three years in residency, and two or three additional Fellowship programs, you can rest assured you are in good hands.

Our rheumatologists conduct research to determine the proper care for each patient so they can expect to experience significant symptom relief and improved quality of life. Don’t suffer in silence – get the help you need today.