Treatments
We evaluate and treat patients with systemic, autoimmune/inflammatory rheumatic diseases. Some examples include:
- Rheumatoid arthritis
- Psoriatic arthritis
- Ankylosing spondylitis
- Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE)
- Sjogren's disease
- Gout
- Pseudogout
- Dermatomyositis
- Connective tissue disease
- Spondyloarthropathies
- Polymyalgia rheumatica
- Giant cell arteritis
- Polyarteritis nodosa
- Granulomatosis with polyangiitis
Infusion
Many medications used in the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis, osteoporosis, psoriatic arthritis, systemic lupus erythematosus, gout, and vasculitis require intravenous administration. Our infusion center is conveniently located in the office and is equipped with comfortable chairs, television and Wi-Fi access. Our experiences physicians are always on site.
Laboratory
Lab services through LabCorp are available in our office Monday through Thursday, 8:00am to 5:15pm. Many tests are run on a daily basis with results typically available to your provider within 48 to 72 hours. Some specialty testing can take a week or longer for results. Once available, results can be viewed on the patient portal. If lab tests are abnormal, patients will be contacted by phone for results and recommendations.
Digital X-ray
X-ray is a fundamental imaging modality for the examination of the musculoskeletal system. It provides information about the bony structures and is used for the identification of abnormalities such as arthritis and fractures. We provide x-ray services in our office to our patients.
Ultrasound
Ultrasounds have become an invaluable tool in the evaluation of musculoskeletal disorders. It is a simple, noninvasive, and quick method of evaluating joints, tendons, ligaments and nerves. It can also be used to guide therapeutic injections to certain joints and adjacent tissues. Rheumatology Associates, PLLC performs ultrasound imaging for diagnosis of arthritis and to aid with injections.
Pharmacy
Rheumatology Associates will provide patients with faster access to specialty medications by reducing common logistical and financial barriers. Closely managed treatments are integral to the outcomes of patients with chronic, progressive and painful rheumatologic diseases.House Rx’s in-house specialty medication dispensing model delivers increased control over patient care by integrating the pharmacist within the care team.
Premier Osteoporosis Care
As we age, our bones slowly get weaker and weaker. Some people's bones become weaker faster than others, and when this happens it can result in a degree of severe bone weakness called osteoporosis. Nearly 1 in 5 women over age 50 in the United States have osteoporosis, whether they know it or not. People with osteoporosis are at an increased risk of breaking a bone from something as small as a ground-level fall. A broken bone, also called a fracture, can lead to serious injury, and especially in older adults it can significantly reduce someone's quality of life and life expectancy. 1 in 5 people will not survive 1-year following a hip fracture. In order to catch osteoporosis before it leads to a life-altering fracture, it is important to have a bone density screening test called a dual energy x-ray absorptiometry (DXA). This is a simple screening test that feels like you are having a regular x-ray.
Once someone is found to have osteoporosis, there are several different medicines that can be used to help both strengthen the bones and significantly reduce the risk of having a fracture. Individuals may have certain other medical problems or levels of bone loss that make one medicine a better option than another. At Rheumatology Associates PLLC, we can work with you to create an individual treatment plan to help find the right treatment for you that reduces your risk of fracture and fits into your treatment goals.
If you have been told that you have osteoporosis and are not on any prescription treatment for it, call our office at (502) 719-2472 to get your appointment scheduled as soon as possible.
People who should be screened with a DXA for low bone density include:
- All women 65 years of age and older
- All men 70 years of age and older
- All post-menopausal women with at least 1 of the following risk factors for osteoporosis:
- Previous fracture
- Parental history of fracture
- Current smoker
- Excessive alcohol use
- Low body weight
- On chronic steroids
- Rheumatoid arthritis
Gout Center of Excellence
Rheumatology Associates, PLLC is excited to announce the opening of our Gout center of excellence. When your gout flares and you need relief fast you can call us for a prompt appointment, no referral from another provider is needed. Rheumatology Associates, PLLC offers the most up to date treatment, including Krystexxa infusions that are not available at most medical offices.