A rheumatologist is a medical doctor who specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of musculoskeletal and autoimmune conditions, including various forms of arthritis and other diseases that affect the joints, muscles, and bones. These specialists undergo extensive training in internal medicine and then pursue additional training in rheumatology.


Rheumatologists treat a wide range of conditions, including but not limited to:

  • Rheumatoid arthritis (RA):
  • A chronic autoimmune disorder characterized by inflammation of the joints, leading to pain, stiffness, and swelling.

  • Osteoarthritis (OA):
  • The most common form of arthritis, characterized by the breakdown of cartilage in the joints, leading to pain and stiffness.

  • Lupus (systemic lupus erythematosus):
  • An autoimmune disease that can affect multiple organs and tissues, including the joints, skin, kidneys, and cardiovascular system.

  • Psoriatic arthritis:
  • A type of arthritis that occurs in some individuals with psoriasis, characterized by joint inflammation and skin lesions.

  • Ankylosing spondylitis:
  • A type of inflammatory arthritis that primarily affects the spine and sacroiliac joints, leading to stiffness and pain.

  • Gout:
  • A form of arthritis caused by the buildup of uric acid crystals in the joints, leading to sudden, severe attacks of pain, swelling, and redness.

    Rheumatologist examining a patient with rheumatoid arthritis Healthy foods that may help alleviate arthritis symptoms

  • Sjögren's syndrome:
  • An autoimmune disorder that primarily affects the glands that produce tears and saliva, leading to dry eyes and mouth, as well as joint pain and fatigue.

  • Vasculitis:
  • Inflammation of blood vessels, which can affect various organs and tissues in the body.

  • Scleroderma:
  • A group of rare autoimmune diseases characterized by the hardening and tightening of the skin and connective tissues, as well as potential involvement of internal organs.

  • Myositis:
  • Inflammation of the muscles, which can cause muscle weakness, pain, and fatigue.