Dual Rheumatologists Bring Insight To These Difficult-To-Manage Diseases

What Is a Rheumatologist?

A rheumatologist is a sub-specialist who undergoes two-to-three additional years of training specifically in autoimmune and musculoskeletal diseases. As rheumatologists, we identify and treat conditions like rheumatoid arthritis, vasculitis, gout, psoriatic arthritis, lupus, Sjogren’s disease, osteoarthritis, and osteoporosis, just to name a few.

Although some of these conditions can be challenging to diagnose, a rheumatologist can spot indications, helping patients arrive at early diagnosis to prevent damage and expediting the best treatment options.

What Difference Can a Rheumatologist Make?

Without treatment, those with rheumatic diseases may suffer needlessly and possibly worsen over time. While some of these inflammatory conditions can begin as a nuisance, in most cases, they can lead to severe consequences. For example, lupus can attack the kidneys, while rheumatoid arthritis typically affects joints and may affect various organs such as eyes and lungs. Untreated conditions may lead to disability.

Working with a rheumatologist means working with someone who can recognize patterns and symptoms sooner and can aid primary care physicians to manage your health. Dr. Hernandez, Dr. Valicek, and the rest of our rheumatologists can identify and begin treatment for autoimmune disease as early as possible, helping slow down the effects of the disease and improving quality of life for the patient. In our practice, we have seen many patients get relief and lead fulfilling lives even with rheumatic diseases.

Are New Medications Effective?

While there are typically no cures for rheumatic diseases, we stay abreast of cutting-edge treatments, which focus on managing issues, slowing down the progression of these diseases, and reducing symptoms. Fortunately, new medications and innovations can make a significant difference for patients suffering from these diseases.

Our team at Fort Bend Rheumatology Associates knows that there is no one-size-fits-all solution. One medication may be proven more effective for skin, but another is better for joints. Another may not be a good option for someone who has a history of issues with blood clots or colitis, but perfectly safe for someone without these concerns. Each case is unique, and each patient is treated with customized solutions in our practice.

Is Medication the Only Option for Treatment?

Absolutely not! Although some practices offer just one aspect of treatment, such as medication, and refer patients to other facilities, Fort Bend Rheumatology Associates has an in-house lab, a suite for in-house infusion therapy, and an onsite physical therapist. By offering these multiple resources under one roof, patients can receive the comprehensive care they need at one facility and with one collaborative team. In fact, our rheumatologists can learn how physical therapy is going for you directly from your therapist, leading to more effective care.

Why Is Physical Therapy Important for Those with Rheumatic Diseases?

Physical therapy plays an important role in our patients’ wellness, and we’re proud to offer that here. Our physical therapy will assess a patient’s balance and strength to formulate a specific treatment plan that can help prevent falls.