Building an arthritis care team

Arthritis can affect many parts of your body, and many parts of your life. That’s why it pays to have a team of healthcare professionals available to help you manage all the different aspects. At any given time, you may need to call on one or more of the following professionals to lend their special perspective to your care.

Primary care physician (PCP). This doctor is trained in general medicine, family practice, or some other entry-level-of-care medicine. While a PCP can evaluate and treat arthritis, he of she may refer you to a rheumatologist for arthritis-specific care.

Rheumatologist. This doctor specializes in the treatment of arthritis and other diseases that affect the joints, muscles, bones, skin, and other tissues. Rheumatologists not only have had four years of medical school and three years of specialized training in internal medicine or pediatrics, but they also have undergone an additional two or three years of training in rheumatology.

Physical therapist (PT). A physical therapist focuses on improving your mobility by helping you with joint flexibility and muscle strength. He or she can help you work on body mechanics so that you can get around safely and with less pain.

Occupational therapist (OT). Occupational therapists can help teach you how to do everyday tasks, like dressing and driving, in a way that minimizes arthritis pain and stiffness. They can also recommend assistive devices that can help you continue doing activities that may have become difficult for you.

Nurse. In addition to assisting your doctor with your care, nurses can explain the thinking behind your treatment plan and suggest practical ways to carry it out. If there’s something about your diagnosis or treatment you don’t understand, your nurse is a good person to ask.

Podiatrist. These “foot doctors” are licensed to prescribe medication and do surgery on the foot or ankle. If your arthritis affects your feet, a podiatrist can prescribe special shoes or other devices that can help.

Ophthalmologist. This specialist can examine and treat you for possible eye complications caused by your arthritis.

Dentist. If you have the dry mouth that accompanies Sjögren’s syndrome, your dentist can recommend remedies. He or she can also tell you about assistive devices if arthritis in your hands makes daily brushing difficult.

Therapist/counselor. These “talk therapy” practitioners can help you explore and cope with the emotional issues that can arise when you’re dealing with a chronic illness like arthritis.

Social worker. A social worker can help you find practical solutions to some of the problems you may encounter in living with arthritis. For example, a social worker can help you navigate health insurance issues or figure out whether you are eligible for certain assistive devices.

If you see a potential player on this list who you think might be able to help you but who isn’t currently on your team, talk with your doctor. He or she will be able to provide you with referrals. (You may want to check first with your insurance plan to see which services are covered.) Because when it comes to keeping arthritis under control, it really does take a team.