Rheumatology
A rheumatologist is a specialist physician who has expertise in diagnosing and treating diseases of the joints, muscles and bones. The more common rheumatic diseases include:

• Arthritis
• Spinal problems
• Osteoarthritis
• Gout
• Fibromyalgia
• Polymyalgia rheumatica
• Tendonitis
• Osteoporosis
• Paget’s disease

Rheumatologists also treat a number of rarer rheumatic conditions that can affect other parts of the body including the skin, hair and internal organs. These include "lupus", myositis, vasculitis and scleroderma.

When you see a rheumatologist, you will receive:

The Diagnosis - after a detailed history of the problem is taken and a physical examination is performed. Additional investigations such as blood tests, X-rays and scans may also be needed.

Information and advice – on the nature of illness and future expectations are given once a diagnosis is made.

Treatment – aimed at managing pain, reducing inflammation and ensuring quality of life can be designed in conjunction with you and your rheumatologist with an accurate diagnosis and a shared understanding of the illness

Ongoing management – either by seeing your rheumatologist regularly or alternatively being treated by your general practitioner with the rheumatologist on hand for specialist advice

When seeing your rheumatologist for the first time, remember that you will need a referral from your GP in order to receive a Medicare rebate for the consultation. Also make sure to bring all your X-ray, scan and/or other results with you at the time of consultation.