Rheumatology includes many different autoimmune conditions that can affect ​joints, connective tissue, muscles, and the immune system. Most of these conditions start with inflammation and stiffness of the joints which can further progress and involve other organs. If left untreated, these conditions can cause severe disability and a diminishing quality of life. 

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 Typically, most of these conditions are initially treated with oral medications such as corticosteroids, methotrexate, sulfasalazine, or oral immunosuppressants however many patients may require biologic injectables or newer systemic agents to keep their disease in remission and prevent disability. 

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Some of the conditions often handled by rheumatologists include rheumatoid arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis, uveitis, lupus, osteoarthritis, Sjogren's syndrome, and more. Fortunately, there are several treatment options available for many of these conditions and are listed below: