Conditions We Treat
Rheumatoid Arthritis Treatment in Manassas, VA
Rheumatoid arthritis treatment in Manassas, VA starts with an accurate diagnosis and a plan to control inflammation early. Our board-certified rheumatologists help patients with RA reduce joint pain and swelling, protect their joints, and stay active through medication management, monitoring, and in-office infusion therapy.
- Board-certified rheumatologists
- Most insurance plans accepted
- Mon to Fri, 8am to 5pm
Early diagnosis matters
Infusions available on site
What Is Rheumatoid Arthritis?
Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic autoimmune disease in which the immune system attacks the lining of the joints, called the synovium. The inflamed lining can damage cartilage and bone over time. RA usually affects joints on both sides of the body, often starting in the small joints of the hands and feet. Because it is a whole-body (systemic) disease, it can also affect the lungs, eyes, heart, blood vessels, and bones.
Common Symptoms
- Pain, swelling, and warmth in several joints, often the hands, wrists, and feet
- Morning stiffness lasting 30 minutes or longer
- Symptoms on both sides of the body
- Fatigue, low-grade fever, or loss of appetite
- Firm lumps under the skin (rheumatoid nodules)
- Flares, when symptoms suddenly worsen
Causes and Risk Factors
The exact cause of RA is not known. It likely develops from a mix of genetic and environmental factors. Risk factors include being female, being middle-aged, having a family history of RA, smoking, and excess body weight.
How We Diagnose Rheumatoid Arthritis
There is no single test for RA. Your clinician combines your history and joint exam with:
- Blood tests such as rheumatoid factor (RF), anti-CCP antibodies, ESR, and CRP
- X-rays to check for joint changes
- Musculoskeletal ultrasound to detect joint inflammation that may not be visible on an exam
- Joint fluid analysis when needed to rule out other causes
Treatment Options
The goal of RA treatment is to reach low disease activity or remission and prevent joint damage. Your plan may include:
- Disease-modifying medications (DMARDs) such as methotrexate
- Biologic and targeted therapies, some given as infusions in our office
- Short-term steroids or joint injections to control flares
- Bone health monitoring with bone density testing, since RA and steroids can weaken bone
- Exercise, physical therapy, and lifestyle support
Regular follow-up visits and lab monitoring help us track your response and adjust treatment safely.
When to Seek Care
See a rheumatologist if joint pain and swelling last more than a few weeks, especially with morning stiffness. Starting treatment early gives the best chance of protecting your joints. Request an appointment at our Manassas office.
Next steps
Get evaluated in Manassas
Call (703) 361-3255 or request an appointment online. Our Manassas office is open Monday to Friday, 8am to 5pm.
Related pages
How We Help
Services Used to Evaluate and Treat Rheumatoid Arthritis
These in-office services may be part of your evaluation or treatment plan.
IV medications for rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, psoriatic arthritis, osteoporosis, and more.
Radiation-free, real-time imaging of joints, tendons, and soft tissue to look for inflammation.
Corticosteroid, hyaluronic acid, and PRP joint injections as one part of a broader treatment plan.
DEXA scans that measure bone mineral density to screen for osteopenia and osteoporosis.
Removing and testing fluid from a swollen joint to help find the cause, such as gout or infection.
Your Care Team
Rheumatology Clinicians Who Treat Rheumatoid Arthritis
Our board-certified rheumatologists and nurse practitioners care for patients with rheumatoid arthritis at our Manassas office.
Nurse practitioner
Certified Registered Nurse Practitioner
FAQs
Rheumatoid Arthritis Questions
Answers to common questions from patients in Manassas and across Northern Virginia.
Is rheumatoid arthritis the same as osteoarthritis?
No. RA is an autoimmune disease that causes joint inflammation, while osteoarthritis is related to cartilage breakdown and joint wear. They are diagnosed and treated differently.
Can rheumatoid arthritis go into remission?
Yes. With early and consistent treatment, many people reach low disease activity or remission. Ongoing care is still important to keep it under control.
Will I need infusions?
Not everyone does. Some patients do well on oral or injectable medications. Infusions may be considered if other options are not enough. Learn about our infusion services.
Does RA affect more than the joints?
It can. RA may affect the eyes, lungs, heart, and bones, which is why regular monitoring with your rheumatologist matters.
Related Conditions
Related Conditions We Treat
Many rheumatic conditions share symptoms or occur together. Learn about related conditions.
Psoriatic Arthritis
Joint inflammation linked to psoriasis
Lupus
Systemic autoimmune disease
Osteoarthritis
Joint pain and stiffness from cartilage wear
Connective Tissue Disorders
Autoimmune conditions of joints, skin, and organs
Osteoporosis & Osteopenia
Low bone density and fracture risk
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Hand numbness, tingling, and weakness
Request an Appointment
Schedule a Visit for Rheumatoid Arthritis
Request an appointment online or call (703) 361-3255 to be evaluated at our Manassas office.
