Rheumatoid Arthritis

Rheumatology

Rheumatoid arthritis, often called “RA,” is a chronic autoimmune disorder that causes pain, stiffness, swelling, and loss of joint function. The immune system mistakenly attacks the synovial membrane, the tissue that lines the joints. This results in inflammation and tissue damage to ligaments, cartilage, and bone. RA may also affect the heart and lungs.

Symptoms

The symptoms of RA vary from person to person, but the most common symptoms are:

Joint pain and stiffness, particularly in the morning or after periods of inactivity
Joint swelling and tenderness
Reduced range of motion in the affected joints
Fatigue and a feeling of being generally unwell
Fever, which may signify inflammation in the body
Numbness or tingling in the hands and feet, which could be a sign of nerve damage

Diagnosing RA

Rheumatoid arthritis symptoms are like those of other types of arthritis, so diagnosing the disease can be challenging. X-rays and other imaging tests will reveal joint damage that can help diagnose the disease. A doctor may also order a blood test to look for specific antibodies that are present in people with RA.

Rheumatoid Arthritis Treatment

RA is a chronic condition, meaning there is no cure. However, some treatments can help manage the symptoms and slow the progression of the disease.

Medications

Medications can be used to treat RA, but these will depend on the patient’s medical history and the severity of the disease.

NSAIDs, or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications like ibuprofen, naproxen, and aspirin, can help relieve the pain associated with RA and reduce inflammation.
Corticosteroids like prednisone and methylprednisolone reduce inflammation and suppress the immune system. They are often used for short-term relief of RA symptoms.
Disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs), including methotrexate, sulfasalazine, and leflunomide, can also slow the progression of RA by suppressing the immune system.
Biologic response modifiers (biologics), such as adalimumab, etanercept, and infliximab, target specific parts of the immune system to reduce inflammation.
Janus kinase inhibitors (JAK inhibitors), such as tofacitinib and baricitinib, block specific enzymes in the immune system to reduce inflammation.

All medications have potential side effects and risks. It’s essential to work closely with a healthcare provider to determine the best course of treatment.

Physical therapy

Physical therapy can play an important role in treating rheumatoid arthritis by improving joint function and flexibility, helping to manage pain and stiffness, and increasing overall physical activity. Exercise can help improve joint flexibility and reduce stiffness in the affected joints.

Surgery

Although not a primary treatment option for rheumatoid arthritis, joint replacement surgeries, such as total hip replacement, total knee replacement, or total shoulder replacement, may be necessary to relieve pain and improve joint function in severe cases. The decision to undergo surgery is typically made after other treatments have failed to provide adequate relief.

Choose SMC Physicians

If you’re experiencing symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis or have been diagnosed with the condition, it’s important to seek appropriate medical care and treatment. Schedule an appointment with our Rheumatology team at SMC Physicians today to discuss your symptoms, receive an accurate diagnosis, and explore personalized treatment options that can help manage your symptoms and improve your quality of life.

Conditions We Treat

We provide ultrasound-guided arthrocentesis (joint injections) of both steroids and gel injections such as Orthovisc and Synvisc.

We offer a state-of-the art private infusion center at each location, offering the following medications and more:

Remicade
Cimzia
Orencia
Rituxan
Actemra
Simponi Aria
Benlysta
Prolia
Reclast

Our Rheumatologists

Paolo Tempongko, MD

Rheumatology

Mariam Alikhan, MD, FACR

Rheumatology

Together, towards the health you deserve...

Phone

609-350-6780

Fax

609-350-6995

10 Locations in NJ

Rheumatoid Arthritis