Rheumatology is a subspecialty in internal medicine and paediatrics that deals with the joints, soft tissues, autoimmune diseases and heritable connective tissue disorders. A rheumatologist specializes in the diagnosis, treatment, and therapy of the rheumatic diseases.

The Rheumatologist

A rheumatologist diagnoses and treats musculoskeletal disease and systemic autoimmune conditions. Unlike an orthopaedist, rheumatologists do not perform surgery to treat joint disease. Furthermore, the goal of many rheumatologists is to find the underlying cause of rheumatic disease and conduct research to find better treatment options.

Rheumatologists generally work in outpatient clinics. However, it is typical for a rheumatologist to be affiliated with a hospital and work with patients hospitalized with a rheumatic disease. A referral from a primary care physician is required for an evaluation with a rheumatologist, though some allow appointments without one.