At Rheumatology Plus, we take a personalized, integrative, and holistic approach to your care, empowering you to achieve optimal health and well-being

What is a Rheumatologist?

Jan 8, 2025

Do you find yourself dealing with persistent aches, stiffness, or swelling in your joints? If so, you’re not alone. Millions of people experience the challenges of rheumatic diseases like arthritis, lupus, and fibromyalgia. These conditions can make everyday life difficult, with even the most routine activities feeling like a challenge. But luckily, rheumatologists such as our own Dr. Carolina Otero at Rheumatology Plus, can help you lead a healthier life so you can get back to doing the things you love.

But what is a rheumatologist exactly? Rheumatologists are medical specialists who diagnose and treat musculoskeletal conditions and systemic autoimmune diseases. Think of them as detectives for your joints, muscles, bones, and connective tissues. They possess in-depth knowledge of complex conditions often characterized by inflammation, pain, and potential damage to these areas. A rheumatologist can be your partner in managing your condition, guiding and supporting you on your journey toward a healthier, more active life.

Five Key Reasons for Why You Should See a Rheumatologist

  • Persistent Joint Pain and Swelling: if you experience joint pain, stiffness, or swelling that lasts for more than a few weeks and doesn’t improve with over-the-counter medications or rest, it’s time to seek expert evaluation.
  • Multiple Joint Involvement: inflammation affecting multiple joints, especially in a symmetrical pattern (wrists and knees), could signal a systemic condition like rheumatoid arthritis.
  • Morning Stiffness: prolonged morning stiffness lasting more than an hour could be an early sign of inflammatory arthritis.
  • Unexplained Symptoms: symptoms like fatigue, fever, skin rashes, or weight loss accompanied by musculoskeletal issues warrant further investigation by a rheumatologist.
  • Family History: a family history of autoimmune or rheumatic diseases increases your risk, and consultation with a rheumatologist can help with early detection and management.

There are more than 100 types of these diseases, including rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, gout, lupus, back pain, osteoporosis, fibromyalgia and tendonitis. Some of these are very serious diseases that can be difficult to diagnose and treat, which is why it’s important to catch them early to combat their effects.

Some benefits of seeing a rheumatologist early include:

  • Protecting Your Joints: early treatments can help slow down or even prevent damage to your joints, keeping you moving freely and maintaining your mobility
  • Managing Your Pain: rheumatologists have a whole toolbox of pain management strategies, from medications to lifestyle advice.
  • Improve Your Quality Of Life: by getting your symptoms under control, you can regain your energy and enjoy your life without sacrificing your health.

Living with a rheumatic disease can be challenging, but you don’t have to face it alone.

At Rheumatology Plus, we take a personalized, integrative, and holistic approach to your care, empowering you to achieve optimal health and well-being. We take the time to understand your unique needs, get to know you on a personal level, and develop a treatment plan that works for you. We’re here to help manage your symptoms so you can improve your well-being and live your life to the fullest. Take the first step towards regaining control of your health. Schedule an appointment with us by calling (352) 995-9518 to learn more about who we are.