Rheumatologists
What is a Rheumatologist?
A rheumatologist is an internist or pediatrician who is qualified by additional training and experiene in the diagnosis and treatment of arthritis and other diseases of the joints, musles and bones.
What Kind of Training Do Rheumatologists Have?
After 4 years of medical school and 3 years of training in either internla medicine or pediatrics, rheumatologists devote an additional 2 to 3 years in specialized rheumatology training. Most rheumatologists who plan to treat patients choose to become board certified. Upon completion of their training, they must pass a rigorous exam conducted by the American Board of Internal Medicine to become certified.
What Do Rheumatologists Treat?
Rheumatologists treat arthritis, certain autoimmune diseases, musculoskeletal pain disorders and osteoporosis. There are more than 100 types of these diseases, including rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, gout, lupus, pack pain, osteoporosis, fibromyalgia and tendonitis. Some of these are very serious diseases that can be difficult to diagnose and treat.
When Should you See a Rheumatologist?
If musculoskeletal pains are not severe or disabling and last just a few dys, it makes sense to give the problem a resonable chance to be resolved. But sometimes, pain in the joints, muscles or bones is severe or persists more than a few days. At that point, you should see your physician.
Many types of rheumtic diseases are not easily identified in the early stages. Rheumatologists are specially trained to do the detective work necessary to discover the cause of swelling nd pin. It's important to determine correct diagnosis early so that the appropriate treatment can begin early.
Lists of Rheumatologists:
Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky Region
