Rheumatology

Our rheumatologist treats inflammatory or “rheumatic” diseases, such as arthritis, certain autoimmune diseases, musculoskeletal pain, and osteoporosis, that affect the joints, muscles, bones, ligaments, and tendons. Some of these rheumatic diseases are very serious. If untreated, they can lead to joint deformities and disability affecting your daily living.

At Faith Regional in Norfolk, Nebraska, our rheumatology team is specially trained in diagnosing these diseases, providing early intervention and helping you regain a healthier and more active life.

How Our Rheumatologist Can Help

It’s important for patients to get an accurate diagnosis early so intervention can start. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial to control the disease and prevent further complications. Our rheumatologist is trained to evaluate the cause of joint pain and swelling and create a personalized management plan. Some of the conditions we treat include:

• Bursitis
• Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
• Gout
• Joint Pain (Including shoulder, knee, ankle, hand, neck, and elbow)
• Inflammatory Myopathy/Myositis
• Osteoarthritis
• Osteoporosis (Including Postmenopausal, Corticosteroid Induced and Male)
• Palindromic Rheumatism
• Polyarteritis Nodosum
• Polymyalgia Rheumatica (PMR)
• Pseudogout
• Psoriatic Arthritis
• Raynaud’s Phenomenon
• Rheumatoid Arthritis
• Sarcoidosis
• Scleroderma
• Sjogren’s Syndrome
• Systemic Lupus Erythematosus
• Tendonitis
• Vasculitis

Talk to your primary care provider if you’re experiencing severe pain in your joints, muscles, or bones, or pain that lasts for more than a few days. If needed, your provider will refer you to a rheumatologist.

Your Treatment Options

With every plan being personalized to you, the treatments and procedures could vary based on your condition. Some of the procedures and treatments you could expect include:

Procedures

• Nailfold Capillaroscopy – Non-invasive imaging technique used to visualize blood vessels (capillaries)
• Musculoskeletal Ultrasound Evaluation – An imaging procedure that allows your doctor to see muscles, joints, and more.
• Synovial Joint Fluid Analysis – Test that examines joint (synovial) fluid.
• Ultrasound-Guided Joint Aspiration – Removal of fluid from a joint for laboratory testing.
• Cortisone Injections – Injection that can help relieve pain, swelling and irritation.

Diagnostic Evaluations

• Biopsy
• Blood Tests
• Bone Density Test
• Electromyogram/Nerve Conduction Study
• Imaging: X-ray, CT/MRI, or Ultrasound

Other Treatment Plans

• Corticosteroids
• Immunosuppressive Medication
• Joint Injections
• Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs
• Physical Therapy or Occupational Therapy

Schedule Your Appointment

Call us today at (402) 844-8227 to schedule an appointment with Dr. Kumar in Norfolk or Columbus.