What is a rheumatologist?

A rheumatologist is a physician who has completed a three year internal medicine (or four year combined internal medicine – pediatrics) residency followed by additional two or more years of subspecialty training in the care of arthritis, immunologic and musculoskeletal diseases. 

Sometimes our role is to ‘solve the riddle’ and determine if there is an underlying immunologic disease causing peoples’ symptoms. Other times the problem is already defined and our job is to integrate medical interventions to control the disease process.  Common themes are to reduce pain, maximize function, prevent organ damage (including structural joint damage), as well as maintain physical strength, work and social integration.  

We do not always have all the answers.  There are times when the best conclusion is a rheumatic disease is ruled out.

In all cases, we work to create a balanced treatment plan that emphasizes adaptation, self-management and effective coping.   Medical treatments may include: exercise,  therapy, pain relievers, oral and intra-articular corticosteroids, and a toolbox of twenty immunomodulators. Explore this short video  to learn more about the about the domain of rheumatology and our areas of clinical expertise.  


Deep Knowledge and Broad Experience Caring