Rheumatology is a specialty devoted to the diagnosis and treatment of conditions such as arthritis, certain autoimmune diseases, musculoskeletal pain disorders and osteoporosis. Rheumatic diseases may cause pain, stiffness and swelling in the joints and other supporting body structures, such as muscles, tendons, ligaments and bones.
The rheumatologists at Greenwich Hospital work with other experts to offer patients guided, personal care based on their specific diagnosis or condition. Treatment plans emphasize the most advanced options available, including new biologic options that may involve intravenous and intramuscular therapies. Breakthrough treatments are available for patients suffering from rheumatoid arthritis, lupus and vasculitis.
While most rheumatology treatments are done in the physician's office, some patients may need to come to the hospital for outpatient infusion therapies. Occasionally certain patients may require inpatient hospitalization.
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The rheumatologists at Greenwich Hospital take a team approach to treatment, providing patients with a full continuum of care across various specialties. Learn more about specific resources available to rheumatoid patients:
Physical Therapy
Physical and occupational therapy enhances and restores functional ability and quality of life to patients with rheumatoid conditions.
Orthopedics
Greenwich Hospital orthopedic surgeons and staff specialize in advanced treatments for rheumatoid arthritis, including hip and knee replacements for patients with advanced arthritis.
Personal Guidance
The Greenwich Hospital staff provides individualized attention to all patients. Patient support includes organizing tests, scheduling appointments, coordinating admission procedures, making discharge arrangements and helping patients understand insurance benefits.
On rare occasions, hospitalization may be required for drug infusion, or to address pain or complications resulting from a rheumatology patient’s diagnosis, treatment or condition. Patients can be assured of compassionate, personalized attention by a team of experts across a wide continuum of care.
Rheumatologists at Greenwich Hospital are specialists in the diagnosis and treatment of arthritis. Arthritis is inflammation of one or more joints, which results in pain, swelling, stiffness, and limited movement. There are more than 100 different types of arthritis. The two most common are osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis.
Osteoarthritis (OA), also called osteoarthroses or degenerative joint disease, is the most common type of arthritis. Caused by wear and tear, it is a chronic condition characterized by the breakdown of cartilage in the joint. This causes the bones to rub against each other, resulting in stiffness, pain and loss of movement in the joint. The joints most often affected are the knees, hips, hands, and spine.
Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune disease that occurs when the immune system mistakenly attacks the cell lining inside the joint. It is mainly characterized by inflammation and can lead to long-term joint damage, resulting in chronic pain and disability.
Diagnosis and Treatment
The goal of most arthritis treatment is to limit pain and inflammation, while ensuring that the joint continues to function as well as possible. Greenwich Hospital rheumatologists work with other specialists, such as orthopedists and physiatrists, to develop treatment plans tailored to each patient. These plans take into consideration the specific type of arthritis the patient has, and the severity of their condition.
Treatment plans often involve both short-term and long-term relief approaches. These include:
Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation
The physiatrists and therapists at Greenwich Hospital's Department of Physical Medicine specialize in treatment for osteoarthritis and rheumatoid conditions. These experts work with patients to manage pain and increase mobility and strength.
Rheumatologists at Greenwich Hospital are specialists in the diagnosis and treatment of fibromyalgia. Fibromyalgia is a form of muscular rheumatism that causes pain in the muscles and soft tissues. It is most prevalent in women of childbearing age.
Symptoms of Fibromyalgia
Pain may begin in one area of the body, such as the neck and shoulders, but the entire body may become affected. The pain ranges from mild to severe and may be described as burning, soreness, stiffness, aching, or gnawing pain. While each individual may experience symptoms differently, some common things to look for include:
The symptoms of fibromyalgia may resemble other medical conditions or problems. Patients should always consult a physician for a diagnosis.
Fibromyalgia Diagnosis
Diagnosis is usually based on the symptoms the patient is experiencing. Specific treatment depends on:
Fibromyalgia cannot be cured, but can often be successfully managed with proper treatment or therapy:
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