Arthritis means inflammation in one or more joints. There are over 100 different kinds of arthritis. Rheumatism is any of the many conditions characterized by generalized pain or aching in muscles, joints and fibrous tissue. Rheumatism may also be associated with inflammation of internal organs, such as the heart, lungs and kidneys. The various forms of arthritis and rheumatism are referred to as the rheumatic diseases.

Rheumatic diseases all have one thing in common - pain. The pain may result from inflammation in a joint (arthritis), a tendon (tendonitis), or a bursa - the pouch-like cavity found near some joints (bursitis). Rheumatic diseases may involve all of the joints or muscles, or be localized at one site.

Some problems are the result of an injury or just wear and tear on your body. For certain rheumatic diseases, heredity may be a predisposing factor. Chemical imbalances and viral or bacterial infections can also cause the inflammation, and joint or muscle pain, which characterize rheumatic diseases.

Rheumatologists are internists with training in the diagnosis and treatment of arthritis and rheumatism. Their strong foundation in internal medicine prepares them as specialists in managing localized and systemic (generalized) pain. For example, they treat localized pain in the back, neck, shoulders and hands, including osteoarthritis, tendonitis and bursitis, and systemic pain caused by diseases like rheumatoid arthritis or systemic lupus. Carpal tunnel syndrome, Lyme disease and osteoporosis are other examples of the diverse problems treated by rheumatologists.

The complex and changeable nature of many rheumatic diseases often requires ongoing assessment and evaluation. The physicians at Arthritis & Rheumatism Associates, P.C. (ARA) encourage the formation of close physician/patient relationships as they monitor conditions and modify treatment. Our goal ­­ to reduce pain and maximize function.

Your rheumatologist may take the lead in diagnosing and caring for your condition, or work as a consulting specialist to your primary care physician. Over 500 specialists in the Washington, D.C. Metropolitan area have referred patients to and requested consultations from the physicians at Arthritis & Rheumatism Associates.

Because many rheumatic diseases change or evolve, you may have to make more than one office visit before your rheumatologist reaches a definitive diagnosis. The diagnostic process usually includes a complete medical history, physical examination and, if indicated, blood tests and x-rays.

ARA offers patients the convenience of in-house, diagnostic facilities. Their use allows physicians to personally review and provide test results to patients in a timely manner. Based on the requirements of your treatment plan, our rheumatologists coordinate your care with the other professionals comprising your health care team.