If you have been told you should see a rheumatologist, you may be wondering what that means. A rheumatologist is a physician who diagnoses and manages conditions that affect the joints, bones, muscles, and connective tissue, including many autoimmune diseases. At the Arthritis & Osteoporosis Center of Northern Virginia, our rheumatology team in Manassas, VA cares for patients across Prince William County and the surrounding area.
Conditions Rheumatologists Commonly Treat
Rheumatic conditions range from common joint wear to complex autoimmune diseases. Some of the conditions our team evaluates and manages include:
- Rheumatoid arthritis, an autoimmune disease that causes joint inflammation
- Osteoarthritis, the gradual breakdown of joint cartilage
- Osteoporosis and osteopenia, conditions that weaken bones
- Gout and pseudogout, caused by crystal deposits in the joints
- Lupus and other connective tissue disorders
- Psoriatic arthritis and ankylosing spondylitis
- Bursitis and tendinitis
Signs It May Be Time to See a Rheumatologist
Many rheumatic conditions start with symptoms that are easy to dismiss. Talk with your primary care provider or schedule an evaluation if you notice:
- Joint pain, swelling, or warmth that lasts more than a few weeks
- Morning stiffness that takes 30 minutes or longer to ease
- Pain in several joints, especially on both sides of the body
- Unexplained fatigue, rashes, or low-grade fevers along with joint symptoms
- A family history of autoimmune disease or osteoporosis
- A fracture from a minor fall, or a doctor’s concern about bone loss
Early evaluation matters. For inflammatory conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, starting a treatment plan sooner can help protect your joints over time.
How a Rheumatologist Evaluates Your Symptoms
Your first visit usually includes a detailed history, a physical exam of your joints and muscles, and a review of any prior lab work or imaging. Depending on your symptoms, your provider may order blood tests or recommend in-office testing. Our Manassas office offers bone density testing, musculoskeletal ultrasound, and EMG (electromyography), so much of your evaluation can happen in one place.
Treatment Options
Treatment depends on your diagnosis and goals. Plans may include medication, lifestyle guidance, joint injections, joint aspiration, or infusion therapy in our on-site infusion center. Your provider will explain your options and build a plan that fits your life.
Schedule a Rheumatology Visit in Manassas
Our board-certified rheumatologists and nurse practitioners see patients at 8100 Ashton Avenue, Suite 215, Manassas, VA 20109, Monday to Friday, 8am to 5pm. Meet our rheumatology providers, review the insurance plans we accept, or request an appointment with our Manassas office. You can also call (703) 361-3255.
This article is for general education and is not a substitute for medical advice. If you are experiencing a medical emergency, call 911.