Rheumatology

Rheumatologists diagnose and treat conditions that affect joints, muscles, and connective tissues such as arthritis, fibromyalgia, and lupus. Our rheumatologists provide highly sought after, comprehensive rheumatology services for adults in Springfield and Palmer.

What Is Rheumatology?

Rheumatology is the study of diseases that affect your musculoskeletal system. Many of these conditions can be genetic and affect a patient throughout their life.

Rheumatology conditions can include:

• Autoimmune diseases make your immune system attack your own tissue.
• Connective tissue diseases affect tissues that connect the structures in your body.
• Inflammatory disorders cause your immune system to make your muscles, joints, or bones inflamed.

What Does a Rheumatologist Do?

Rheumatologists help you manage joint pain and control long-term inflammation.

If you receive a positive diagnosis for a rheumatologic condition, the rheumatologist will handle your care. They'll help manage your medication, injections, and infusions.

We offer access to state-of-the-art therapies and treatments.

Our rheumatology team provides clear education on diagnoses, treatment options, and lifestyle strategies to help you manage your condition.

Common Conditions Rheumatologists Treat

We provide state-of-the-art diagnosis and treatment of a range of rheumatology conditions, including:

• Rheumatoid arthritis
• Psoriatic arthritis
• Lupus
• Ankylosing spondylitis
• Gout
• Vasculitis
• Connective tissue diseases
• And other autoimmune or inflammatory disorders

When You Should Consider Seeing a Rheumatologist

Talk to your primary care provider if you have these symptoms:

• Recurrent fevers
• Joint swelling or inflammation
• Joint Pain
• Fatigue
• Rash
• Anemia
• Weakness Sudden weight loss

Your primary care provider will be able to help you navigate your care and can refer you to a rheumatologist if necessary.

What to Expect at Your First Visit

During your first visit, you'll review your symptoms and medical history with a rheumatologist.

You may need a physical exam and bloodwork. The rheumatologist may also order imaging tests, like X-rays.

A follow-up appointment will be scheduled where the rheumatologist will discuss a treatment plan with you.