Rheumatology

Looking for a rheumatologist in San Diego?

Scripps Affiliated Medical Groups has a list of doctors specializing in all aspects of rheumatology. The primary role of a rheumatologist is to diagnose, treat, and manage patients with arthritis and other rheumatic diseases. These health conditions may affect the bones, joints, muscles, and in some cases other organs such as the brain, lungs, blood vessels, or kidneys.

Osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis (OA) is the gradual damage to cartilage over time. Cartilage is the substance that cushions the ends of bones and allows them to move more smoothly.

Rheumatoid Arthritis

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a long-term condition where the body’s immune system attacks its own tissues, which can result in permanent joint damage and even deformity.

Lupus

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a potentially deadly autoimmune disease that leads to long-term inflammation. The cause of lupus is still unknown.

Rheumatic diseases are painful conditions and usually involve inflammation, swelling, and chronic pain. There are hundreds of rheumatic diseases, with the most common or well-known being osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and lupus. Some rheumatic diseases are caused by genetics, but others are caused by lifestyle choices (such as excessive wear and tear of joints, or being overweight), infection, trauma, or neurogenic or metabolic disturbances.

Rheumatologists may try one or several treatments in order to decrease pain and improve a patient’s quality of life. Some of the most common treatment options include: medications, steroids, NSAIDs, DMARDS, infliximab, adalimumab, and occupational therapy. A rheumatologist may work in a multidisciplinary team of doctors including primary care physicians, orthopaedic surgeons, physical therapists, podiatrists, and other specialists in order to provide the best management and/or treatment plan depending on your health condition.

Compare Rx Costs
Compare Rx Costs
Lipitor, Cialis, Lexapro