Rheumatology
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Southeast RheumatologyIt can be difficult to live with diseases, like arthritis or lupus, that affect the joints, muscles or connective tissues. But there are solutions to the problems you may be having, and the first step is to make an appointment at Southeast Rheumatology. We offer a full range of care for rheumatic diseases.
Our Rheumatology Expertise
Your primary care provider may help you manage some rheumatic conditions. Other diseases may require specialized care. And that's what we can provide.
Food and Arthritis: Quiz yourself.
Inflammation is one of the hallmarks of arthritis, and what you eat may play a role. From fats to fish and veggies to bread, certain foods can lessen the swelling (and stiffness) of arthritis—and other can make it worse. Do you know which foods are which?
True or false: The omega-6 fatty acids found in vegetable oils, mayonnaise and many types of salad dressing can help reduce inflammation if eaten in large quantities.
False. Your body needs omega-6 fatty acids for normal growth and development, but eating too many can trigger the production of pro-inflammatory chemicals that can make the disease worse. So go easy on the safflower, corn and soybean oils.
True or false: Processed carbohydrates like white bread, white rice, instant mashed potatoes and French fries can make inflammation worse.
True. These foods go through a refining process that forms high levels of chemicals called advanced glycation end products, which are known to contribute to inflammation. (They're also linked to type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease and obesity.)
True or false: Eating chocolate triggers the release of chemicals called cytokines, which are natural painkillers.
False. Chocolate bars and other sugary snacks do promote the production of cytokines. But they don't lessen pain—they actually increase inflammation. The root culprit is processed sugar, not the chocolate itself. Limit foods that list sugar or any item that ends in ose (like fructose or sucrose) in the ingredients.
True or false: Spinach, broccoli, cherries, tomatoes, beets, bananas, sweet potatoes and oranges are all good additions to an anti-inflammatory diet.
True. Plant-based foods are packed with antioxidants, which can help fight inflammation.
True or false: Fatty fish, like salmon and sardines, contain healthy, anti-inflammatory omega-3 fatty acids.
True. Some experts say people with arthritis should be eating fish 2 to 4 times a week. Other omega-3 rich foods include flaxseeds and canola oil.
There are more than 100 different types of arthritis and related conditions. If you have pain, swelling or stiffness in your joints, talk to a doctor. Other signs and symptoms can help the doctor figure out what kind of arthritis you might have.
Visit the arthritis health topic center
Sources: Arthritis Foundation; National Institutes of Health
At Southeast Rheumatology, you'll see a board-certified rheumatologist. He is an internal medicine doctor who has completed extra training in rheumatology.
This high level of training allows our rheumatologist to diagnose and treat all types of rheumatic conditions. Among them:
- Ankylosing spondylitis
- Fibromyalgia
- Gout
- Osteoarthritis
- Psoriatic arthritis
- Rheumatoid arthritis
- Scleroderma
- Systemic lupus erythematosus
You can turn to us if you've had an illness for many years. Or we can help if your symptoms just started. In some cases, getting an early diagnosis is a crucial step in treating a rheumatic disease. So don't delay seeking care.
Live Better, Feel Better
Even when a rheumatic disease can't be cured, it can be treated. Less pain and a better quality of life is possible with the right care.
Often, the first step to feeling better is a thorough medical evaluation. We don't rush things. Our patients tell us that they appreciate this.
After a physical exam and review of your medical history, we will get a treatment plan started for you.
We offer a variety of treatments, including medications, infusion therapy and joint injections. Some therapies can ease your symptoms. Others may slow the progression of your disease.
Physical or occupational therapy for arthritis can be an option too. It helps many people move better and perform daily activities with less pain. Arthritis rehabilitation is available at HealthPoint Rehabilitation.
Make an Appointment With a SoutheastHEALTH Rheumatologist
You will need a medical referral to see a rheumatologist at SoutheastHEALTH.
Please call 573.519.4989 to learn more or schedule an appointment.