Rheumatology

Rheumatology is a medical specialty focused on diagnosing and treating autoimmune and inflammatory conditions that affect the joints, muscles, bones, and connective tissues. These conditions—such as rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, gout, and psoriatic arthritis—can cause pain, swelling, stiffness, and fatigue, often impacting daily life and mobility. Rheumatologists are specially trained to manage these complex, chronic diseases using a combination of advanced diagnostics, medications, and personalized care plans to help patients reduce symptoms, prevent joint damage, and improve overall quality of life.

At WinnMed, our full-time, board-certified rheumatologist works closely with a multidisciplinary team to provide personalized care plans tailored to each patient’s unique needs. We treat a wide range of conditions, including rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, gout, psoriatic arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis, vasculitis, and more.

Using the latest diagnostic tools and evidence-based treatments—including advanced biologic therapies, infusion services, and lifestyle support—we focus on early diagnosis, effective disease management, and long-term wellness.

Whether you’re newly diagnosed or seeking a second opinion, we’re here to support you every step of the way with compassionate care and expert guidance.

Common Rheumatologic Conditions

Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA)

A chronic autoimmune disease where the immune system attacks the joints, causing pain, swelling, stiffness, and potential joint damage. It can also affect other organs like the lungs and heart.

Lupus (Systemic Lupus Erythematosus)

An autoimmune disease that can affect the skin, joints, kidneys, brain, and other organs. Symptoms vary widely but often include fatigue, joint pain, and skin rashes.

Psoriatic Arthritis

An inflammatory arthritis associated with psoriasis, a skin condition. It causes joint pain, stiffness, and swelling, and can affect any part of the body, including the spine.

Ankylosing Spondylitis

A type of arthritis that primarily affects the spine, causing inflammation, pain, and stiffness. Over time, it can lead to fusion of the spinal vertebrae.

Gout

A form of inflammatory arthritis caused by excess uric acid in the blood, leading to sudden, severe attacks of pain, swelling, and redness in the joints—often the big toe.

Osteoporosis

A medical condition in which bones become weak and brittle due to a loss of bone density, making them more prone to fractures. It often develops silently over time and is most commonly diagnosed after a bone breaks from a minor fall or stress.

Sjogren’s Syndrome

An autoimmune disorder that targets the glands that produce moisture, leading to dry eyes and mouth. It can also affect joints, skin, and internal organs.

Scleroderma

A rare autoimmune disease that causes hardening and tightening of the skin and connective tissues. It can also affect internal organs and blood vessels.

Vasculitis

A group of disorders that cause inflammation of the blood vessels, which can restrict blood flow and damage organs and tissues.

Polymyalgia Rheumatica

An inflammatory disorder causing muscle pain and stiffness, especially in the shoulders and hips, typically affecting older adults.

Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis (JIA)

The most common type of arthritis in children, causing persistent joint pain, swelling, and stiffness.

Common Treatments for Rheumatologic Conditions

Medications

Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) – for pain and inflammation relief.

Corticosteroids – to quickly reduce inflammation and suppress the immune system.

Disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs) – to slow disease progression (e.g., methotrexate).

Biologic agents – targeted therapies that block specific immune system pathways (e.g., TNF inhibitors).

JAK inhibitors – oral medications that interfere with inflammatory signaling.

Infusion Therapy

Administered for patients requiring intravenous biologics or other advanced treatments.

Physical and Occupational Therapy

To improve joint function, mobility, and daily living skills.

Lifestyle and Nutritional Counseling

Guidance on anti-inflammatory diets, weight management, and exercise routines.

Pain Management

Includes medications, nerve blocks, or integrative therapies like acupuncture.

Surgery (in severe cases)

Joint replacement or repair when conservative treatments are no longer effective.

Patient Education and Self-Management Support

Tools and resources to help patients manage symptoms and treatment plans effectively.

Your Appointment

Rheumatology appointments can be made by calling WinnMed at 563-382-2911.  You can also request an appointment through MyChart.

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