i
Loading Page
loading, please wait

Filters

FILTERS

Clear All Filters

CONDITIONS / TREATMENTS

Search for Conditions/Treatments...

MEDICAL SCHOOLS

Search for Medical School...

SPECIALTIES

SORT BY

Rheumatologists - Opelika, AL

We found 2 rheumatologists in Opelika, AL. See refinement options below.

Sort By
  • Default
  • Patient Rating
  • Distance

Related searches

You can further refine your search:

ankylosing spondylitis (1) , flu shot (1) , musculoskeletal imaging (1) , autoimmune diseases (1) , rheumatic diseases (1) , inpatient hospital care (1) , x-rays (1) , wegener's granulomatosis (1) , lab tests (1) , musculoskeletal problems (1) , phlebotomy for lab tests (1) , intravenous infusion (1)

in Nearby Locations

Columbus, GA Peachtree City, GA

Other Providers in Opelika, AL

Addiction Counselors Audiologists Cardiologists Cardiothoracic Surgeons Cornea Specialists Counselors General Practitioners Interventional Cardiologists Mental Health Professionals Neonatologists Pediatric Endocrinologists Physical Therapists Radiologists Sleep Doctors & Specialists Speech Therapists

What is Rheumatology?

Rheumatology is the medical specialty that is concerned with arthritis and other diseases of inflammation. Inflammation can occur anywhere in the body, but it is most common in the joints and connective tissues. Arthritis, which occurs in the joints, is also a very common condition, so rheumatology is strongly associated with joint care. But rheumatology is about more that just arthritis. Other conditions that a rheumatologist might treat include:

  • Lupus, a chronic inflammatory disease
  • Ankylosing spondylitis, inflammation at the base of the spine
  • Sjogren's syndrome, an autoimmune disorder that stops production of tears and saliva
  • Fibromyalgia, a disorder causing widespread, chronic pain and fatigue

Pediatric rheumatologists are doctors that specialize in treating inflammatory diseases in children. Rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, and other inflammatory diseases can begin even in childhood, and can cause a unique set of problems for active and growing children.

Rheumatologists use patient symptoms as well as lab tests and imaging tests such as MRIs to diagnose disease. Treatment varies widely depending on the diagnosis, but it may include physiotherapy (to improve motion, ability, and function) or medications. Commonly prescribed medications include anti-inflammatories such as NSAIDS (e.g. Tylenol, Ibuprofen) and steroids, or immune system suppressants such as methotrexate and TNF inhibitor medications (e.g. Enbrel, Humira). The goal is always to increase the patient's ability to move without pain and to reduce the need for future treatment.