Which Specialist Should I See for My Joint Pain and Discomfort?

Q: Which Specialist Should I See for My Joint Pain and Discomfort?

Dear Miss Little Dot： Based on your statements, it is necessary to consider several possibilities, including rheumatoid arthritis, muscular dystrophies, osteoarthritis, neurological disorders, autoimmune diseases, and others. <br>It is recommended that you first discuss this with

Which department should I see?

Hello, Doctor.
Allow me to describe the following symptoms: 1.
My finger joints are painful, and I initially thought it was rheumatoid arthritis, so I went to an orthopedic specialist for blood tests.
However, the tests came back normal, but the finger joints still hurt when touched.
2.
My left knee suddenly became weak and subsequently painful.
I saw an orthopedic doctor who took X-rays and said that the patella was slightly misaligned and recommended leg raises, but after several months, I still see no improvement.
3.
Following the knee pain, I now have soreness and pain in my left upper arm.
The soreness started in the outer arm and then moved to the inner arm, and now the entire upper arm is sore, painful, and weak.
Recently, my entire left arm feels sore, painful, weak, and somewhat swollen.
All these symptoms are on the left side.
Could you please advise which specialty I should see or what tests I should undergo to alleviate my pain and clarify my concerns?

Xiao Budian, 40~49 year old female. Ask Date: 2018/12/26

Dr. Xiao Yongxun reply Family Medicine

Dear Miss Little Dot: Based on your statements, it is necessary to consider several possibilities, including rheumatoid arthritis, muscular dystrophies, osteoarthritis, neurological disorders, autoimmune diseases, and others.
It is recommended that you first discuss this with your primary care physician or directly visit a rheumatology clinic for evaluation and treatment.

Reply Date: 2018/12/26

More Info

Based on the symptoms you've described, it sounds like you are experiencing a complex set of joint and muscle issues that may require a multi-faceted approach to diagnosis and treatment. Given the nature of your symptoms, I would recommend that you consider seeing a rheumatologist. Rheumatologists specialize in diagnosing and treating conditions that affect the joints, muscles, and bones, particularly autoimmune diseases like rheumatoid arthritis, which you initially suspected.

Here’s a breakdown of why a rheumatologist might be the right specialist for you:
1. Comprehensive Evaluation: Rheumatologists are trained to evaluate a wide range of symptoms that may not seem related at first glance. Your symptoms include joint pain in your fingers, knee discomfort, and pain in your upper arm, which could suggest an underlying systemic issue rather than isolated joint problems.

2. Advanced Diagnostic Tests: While your orthopedic doctor performed blood tests and X-rays, a rheumatologist may recommend additional tests such as MRI scans, ultrasound, or specific blood tests for inflammatory markers (like ESR or CRP) and autoantibodies (like rheumatoid factor or anti-CCP antibodies). These tests can provide a clearer picture of what might be causing your symptoms.

3. Management of Chronic Pain: If your symptoms are related to an autoimmune condition, a rheumatologist can help manage your pain through a combination of medications, lifestyle changes, and possibly physical therapy. They can prescribe disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs) if necessary, which can help slow the progression of diseases like rheumatoid arthritis.

4. Holistic Approach: Rheumatologists often take a holistic approach to treatment, considering not just the physical symptoms but also how they affect your overall quality of life. They can work with you to develop a comprehensive treatment plan that may include medication, physical therapy, and lifestyle modifications.

5. Referral to Other Specialists: If your symptoms are multifactorial, a rheumatologist can also coordinate care with other specialists, such as physical therapists, occupational therapists, or pain management specialists, to ensure you receive comprehensive care.

In addition to seeing a rheumatologist, you might also consider the following steps:
- Physical Therapy: Since you have been advised to perform exercises for your knee, working with a physical therapist could help you strengthen the muscles around your joints, improve your range of motion, and reduce pain.

- Pain Management: If your pain persists, a pain management specialist can provide additional options, including injections or alternative therapies that may help alleviate your discomfort.

- Lifestyle Modifications: Incorporating low-impact exercises, such as swimming or cycling, can help maintain joint function without putting excessive strain on your joints. Additionally, maintaining a healthy weight can reduce stress on your knees and other joints.

- Diet and Supplements: Some patients find relief through dietary changes or supplements, such as omega-3 fatty acids, which have anti-inflammatory properties. However, it’s essential to discuss any supplements with your healthcare provider before starting them.

In summary, I recommend that you schedule an appointment with a rheumatologist who can provide a thorough evaluation of your symptoms and guide you toward an effective treatment plan. It’s crucial to address these symptoms early to prevent any potential long-term damage and improve your quality of life.

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