Rheumatology: Specialized Care for Joint, Muscle, and Bone Health

Arthritis is a widespread condition that leads to joint pain and inflammation, affecting millions globally. Rather than being a singular illness, it refers to more than 100 different types of arthritis and related disorders. With its varying forms, the symptoms and severity of arthritis can differ substantially from case to case. While general practitioners can help manage some cases, a rheumatologist is a specialist trained specifically in diagnosing and treating arthritis and other musculoskeletal disorders. Their expertise is critical in providing comprehensive care, especially when the condition is complex or difficult to diagnose.

The Nasseri Clinic carries out a comprehensive evaluation of a patient’s symptoms and medical history, followed by a thorough physical examination and necessary laboratory tests to diagnose arthritis. Our rheumatologists, with their in-depth knowledge and experience, are capable of identifying and differentiating between various forms of arthritis. As there is no comprehensive screening to establish the diagnosis of this multifaceted disease, the specialist may order:

• Blood tests: To detect inflammatory markers, autoantibodies, and other indicators of arthritis.
• Imaging tests (X-rays, MRIs, ultrasounds): To visualize joint structures, assess damage, and rule out other conditions.
• Synovial fluid analysis: To examine the fluid within the joints for signs of inflammation.

Our rheumatologists are experienced in the wide range of treatments available for arthritis. Our treatment approaches for arthritic conditions aim to:

• Reduce inflammation and pain: Through the administration of medications like corticosteroids, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), and disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs).
• Control disease activity: By using DMARDs and other medications to suppress the immune system, slow disease progression, and prevent joint damage.
• Improve function and mobility: Through physical or occupational therapies and assistive devices.

A rheumatologist and an orthopedic specialist both focus on the musculoskeletal system but differ in their areas of expertise and treatment approaches.

Specialists in rheumatology diagnose and treat diseases affecting the joints, muscles, and connective tissues, such as rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, and gout, which are caused by autoimmune and inflammatory processes. Their primary focus is on managing chronic conditions, often using medications, such as anti-inflammatories and disease-modifying drugs, to reduce pain and inflammation and prevent disease progression.

On the other hand, orthopedic specialists deal with the structural aspects of the musculoskeletal system, such as bones, ligaments, tendons, and joints. They are trained to diagnose and treat conditions arising from injuries, trauma, or degenerative diseases like osteoarthritis. Orthopedic doctors commonly perform surgical procedures such as joint replacements, fracture repairs, and reconstructive surgeries. They often treat patients who require physical correction or repair of musculoskeletal structures.

We understand that both rheumatologists and orthopedic specialists are critical in managing musculoskeletal issues. Our team of experts is not only focused on managing chronic, often autoimmune conditions using non-surgical treatments, but also on treating specific musculoskeletal injuries, trauma, and degenerative conditions.

The early signs of rheumatic conditions can be subtle and easily overlooked. These may include joint pain, stiffness, and swelling; muscle weakness, pain, and tenderness; fatigue and fever. You may also notice bilateral symptoms, symmetry in your symptoms, and persistence of symptoms for longer than two weeks.

Rheumatic conditions can also affect other parts of your body, leading to inflammation in areas other than the joints, which can lead to symptoms such as dry eyes and mouth or shortness of breath. In some cases, you may notice changes to your skin, such as rashes, ulcers, or lesions.

At Nasseri Clinic, we stress the importance of early detection. If you are affected by such symptoms, our experts urge you to seek medical attention. While these signs can indicate a rheumatic condition, they can also be symptoms of other illnesses. We will perform an in-depth evaluation to diagnose the source of your symptoms and formulate a treatment strategy tailored to meet your unique needs.

We utilize a combination of imaging techniques, blood tests, and other procedures based on your symptoms, your medical history, and our rheumatologists’ expertise. Radiographic imaging is crucial for diagnosing diseases related to rheumatology. We commonly use X-rays, a cost-effective tool that provides initial insights into your bone and joint structure. This method can identify changes such as bone softening, narrowing of joint spaces, new bone formation, and erosions.

Our clinic also utilizes musculoskeletal ultrasonography, a type of ultrasound. This method produces images of soft tissues, tendons, and joint fluid through sound waves, allowing for the identification of synovial thickening, fluid buildup, and inflammation. For more detailed images, we employ magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), specifically MRI arthrography, and computed tomography (CT) scans. MRI, with the help of contrast agents, enhances the visualization of articular cartilage, ligaments, and synovial membranes, identifying tears, damage, and inflammation. CT scans provide detailed images of bone density and architecture, detecting fractures, osteoporosis, and bone erosion.

We provide specialized care for joint, muscle, and bone health at the Nasseri Clinic of Arthritic and Rheumatic Diseases. For more information, contact us or request an appointment online. We serve patients from Catonsville MD, Glen Burnie MD, Columbia MD, North Baltimore MD, Rosedale MD, Edgewater MD, Hebbville MD, Woodlawn MD, Pasadena MD, Jacobsville MD, Ellicott City MD, Laurel MD, Dundalk MD, Halethorpe MD, Overlea MD, Parkville MD, Riva MD, Annapolis MD, Ferndale MD, and surrounding areas.