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 128 specialists practicing Rheumatology in Tennessee with an overall average rating of 3.8 stars. There are 51 hospitals in Tennessee with affiliated Rheumatology specialists, including CHI Memorial Hospital Chattanooga, Ascension Saint Thomas Hospital Midtown and Baptist Memorial Hospital - Memphis.
