The rheumatologist is the doctor who specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of diseases that affect the joints, muscles, tendons and bones. This professional is responsible for treating a wide variety of rheumatic disorders, such as rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, fibromyalgia, ankylosing spondylitis, and systemic lupus erythematosus, among others. The rheumatologist uses a combination of laboratory tests, imaging studies, and clinical evaluations to diagnose these conditions and develop an individualized treatment plan for each patient. Treatments may include medications, physical therapy, lifestyle changes, and in some cases, surgery. It is advisable to see a rheumatologist if you experience symptoms such as persistent joint pain, stiffness, inflammation, fatigue or limitation in mobility, to receive an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment that improves the patient's quality of life and physical function.
An orthopedist is a doctor who specializes in the musculoskeletal system of the human body, which includes bones, joints, ligaments, tendons, muscles and nerves. This professional is responsible for the diagnosis, treatment and prevention of injuries and diseases that affect these structures, such as bone fractures, dislocations, sports injuries, arthritis, and degenerative diseases such as osteoporosis and osteoarthritis. The orthopedist uses various treatment modalities, which may include physical therapy, medications, occupational therapy, and surgery, with the goal of restoring the patient's function and mobility. It is advisable to go to an orthopedist for persistent injuries or pain in the musculoskeletal system to receive an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment that allows effective recovery and improves the patient's quality of life.