Rheumatologists specialize in diagnosing and treating conditions that affect the joints. If you have osteoarthritis, your primary care doctor may refer you to a rheumatologist. However, if surgery is required, an orthopedic surgeon will be needed. Arthritis affects up to 24% of U.S. adults, causing joint pain, stiffness, and swelling. The most common type is osteoarthritis, which primarily affects individuals over 45. Younger people may develop osteoarthritis if they have a joint injury or a structural joint issue.
Osteoarthritis leads to the breakdown of soft tissues in the joint, impacting the entire joint, including the bone. This condition typically worsens over time, with symptoms manifesting gradually in some individuals while appearing more quickly in others.
Treatment for osteoarthritis often starts with a primary care physician (PCP), who may then refer you to a specialist known as a rheumatologist. Here’s what you need to know about rheumatologists and how they can help you manage osteoarthritis.
What is a Rheumatologist?
Rheumatologists are doctors who specialize in treating chronic rheumatic diseases, which affect the musculoskeletal system, including:
- Joints
- Tendons
- Ligaments
- Muscles
- Bones
How Can a Rheumatologist Help with Osteoarthritis?
While there is no cure for osteoarthritis, careful management can slow its progression. Rheumatologists use various sources of information to diagnose the condition, including:
- Physical exams
- Medical history
- Family history
- Imaging such as X-rays or MRI
- Tests to rule out other conditions
A rheumatologist aims to reduce pain, preserve function, and slow the condition’s progression. They can help you develop a comprehensive treatment plan and may prescribe medications as needed. Additionally, they can refer you to an orthopedic surgeon if surgical intervention is necessary.
How Can a Primary Care Doctor Help with Osteoarthritis?
Your primary care physician (PCP) is often the first step toward a diagnosis of osteoarthritis. They can identify warning signs and symptoms and refer you to the appropriate specialist for treatment.
Before making a referral, your PCP will consider symptoms and signs such as:
- Difficulty moving a joint
- Stiffness, pain, or swelling in a joint
- Joints that are red or warm to the touch
- Abnormal lab results indicating a joint or rheumatic issue
- Previous injury to a joint
What Other Specialists Can Help with Osteoarthritis?
In addition to your PCP and rheumatologists, several other healthcare professionals can assist in managing and relieving osteoarthritis.
These specialists include:
- Physical Therapists: Help with exercises to improve joint function
- Orthopedic Surgeons: Perform surgery if needed
- Chiropractors: Focus on spine and body structure
- Psychologists, Counselors, and Social Workers: Assist with mental health challenges related to the condition
- Physiatrists: Doctors who specialize in physical medicine and rehabilitation
- Dietitians: Create healthy eating plans to manage weight, as excess weight can exacerbate the condition
- Nurse Educators: Help you understand the condition
- Occupational Therapists: Assist with managing daily living activities
How Do I Know Which Kind of Doctor to See for Osteoarthritis?
Most people begin by consulting a primary care physician (PCP). Your PCP will ask about your symptoms and medical history, perform a physical examination, and possibly order tests. Based on their assessment, they will refer you to the appropriate specialist.
Takeaway
Treating osteoarthritis often involves collaborating with multiple healthcare professionals. Among these specialists are rheumatologists, who focus on diagnosing and treating joint conditions. Rheumatologists can work with you to develop a treatment plan and refer you for surgery if necessary.
Since osteoarthritis is a chronic condition with no known cure, effective management is crucial to slowing its progression and maintaining joint function.