Services

Novant Health Rheumatology provides diagnosis and treatment of may types of autoimmune and joint diseases. 

Conditions

Come see us if you have one of the following types of conditions:

  • Ankylosing spondylitis: A chronic inflammatory disease of the bones that limits mobility and causes pain.
  • Arthritis: Most types of arthritis, such as rheumatoid arthritis, cause a painful swelling that can eventually result in bone erosion and joint deformity.
  • Gout: A red, hot, swollen joint develops from a buildup of uric acid.
  • Lupus: This disease affects many areas of the body as it causes your own immune system to attack healthy tissue.
  • Lyme Disease: Ticks can carry this disease, which results in joint pain, neck stiffness, headaches and heart palpitations. It is treated primarily with antibiotics, but can lead to arthritis.
  • Osteoarthritis: This degenerative condition eventually wears away the cartilage between the bones, causing pain.
  • Polymyositis:nbsp;An inflammation of the muscles, this disease often responds well to treatments, which may include corticosteroids or exercise therapy.
  • Reactive arthritis: Unlike most cases of arthritis, reactive arthritis can be traced to an event, such as salmonella poisoning.
  • Vasculitis: A disorder that harms blood vessels by inflammation. Vasculitis is sometimes symptomatic of other diseases or conditions.

Treatment Options

We'll provide a full evaluation and talk with you about your treatment options. These may include:

Medications: Prescriptions drugs can be administered orally, through an injection or by infusion at our office.
  • Anti-TNF: These drugs can alter how a disease affects the body by controlling inflammation. Some of the brand names include: Embrel, Humira, Remecade (infusion), Cinzia, and Simponi.
  • NSAIDs: Prescription-strength version of over-the-counter anti-inflammatory drugs can help reduce joint inflammation.
  • Biologics: These drugs are alter the function of the immune system. Methotrexate is a common drug used to treat rheumatoid arthritis. Actemra, Orencia, Benlysta, and Rituxan are some of the commonly prescribed biologics.
  • Corticosteroids: Anti-inflammatory medications, such as prednisone, used to treat arthritis.

Bracing: Immobilizing a joint can reduce the pain associated with movement.

Surgery: If a joint is unbearably painful or in cases of advanced osteoarthritis, surgery might be suggested. Knee, hip and shoulder replacement surgeries can be scheduled at NHRMC Orthopedic Hospital.