A rheumatologist specializes in diagnosing and treating arthritis and other rheumatic diseases. Rheumatic diseases are characterized by inflammation and loss of function of your joints, tendons, ligaments, bones or muscles. A rheumatologist is an internal medicine doctor specializing in the health needs of adults with rheumatic problems.
A rheumatologist typically:
Evaluates a patient’s medical history and physical condition
Provides expertise in diagnosing complex diseases that tend to be vague in the early stages and change with time
Orders and interprets laboratory tests and imaging exams
Diagnoses and treats rheumatic conditions including certain autoimmune diseases, pain syndromes, arthritis, and other joint disorders
Prescribes medications and other therapies
Provides advice about appropriate levels of exercise and rest
Provides referrals to surgeons when needed
A rheumatologist may also be known as an arthritis doctor or RA doctor.
There are 235 specialists practicing Rheumatology in North Carolina with an overall average rating of 3.8 stars. There are 82 hospitals in North Carolina with affiliated Rheumatology specialists, including Atrium Health's Carolinas Medical Center, Duke University Hospital and Mission Hospital - Asheville.
