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.