Rheumatology

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Rheumatology studies and treats conditions that affect the connecting tissues of the body, including joints, tendons, ligaments and bones.

Two of the most common disorders are arthritis, which targets your joints, and musculoskeletal diseases, like carpal tunnel or tendonitis. 

Common Symptoms

Some warning signs or common symptoms of rheumatological conditions include:
Inflammation
Loss of motion
Muscle atrophy
Muscle weakness
Pain
Redness
Swelling

Common Conditions

Our board-certified rheumatologists and specially trained staff are dedicated to providing personalized care for a wide range of rheumatological conditions, including but not limited to:
Ankylosing Spondylitis

Arthritis affecting the spine.

Gout

A form of arthritis characterized by severe pain, redness, and tenderness in joints.

Immune System Disorders

Conditions where the immune system attacks the body's tissues.

Myositis

Inflammation of the muscles.

Osteoarthritis

Degeneration of joint cartilage and the underlying bone.

Psoriatic Arthritis

Arthritis that affects some people with psoriasis.

Pseudogout

Similar to gout but caused by calcium crystals.

Rheumatoid Arthritis

Chronic inflammation of the joints.

Sjogren’s Disease

An immune system disorder characterized by dry eyes and mouth.

Systemic Lupus Erythematosus

An autoimmune disease that affects various parts of the body.

Systemic Sclerosis

Hardening and tightening of the skin and connective tissues.

Vasculitis

Inflammation of the blood vessels.

Arthritis affecting the spine.

A form of arthritis characterized by severe pain, redness, and tenderness in joints.

Conditions where the immune system attacks the body’s tissues.

Inflammation of the muscles.

Degeneration of joint cartilage and the underlying bone.

Arthritis that affects some people with psoriasis.

Similar to gout but caused by calcium crystals.

Chronic inflammation of the joints.

An immune system disorder characterized by dry eyes and mouth.

An autoimmune disease that affects various parts of the body.

Hardening and tightening of the skin and connective tissues.

Inflammation of the blood vessels.

Treatment

While treatment plans are tailored to individual needs, common treatments may include:

Anti-inflammatory drugs, pain relievers, and immune system suppressants.

Customized exercises to improve mobility and strength.

Diet changes, exercise routines, and stress management.

In severe cases, surgical interventions may be necessary.

Rheumatological conditions can affect any part of your body.

They can cause serious pain and even interfere with everyday activities. While there is not one specific cause of these conditions, there are many factors that could contribute to a rheumatological condition, including:  

  • Activity Level: Both excessive physical activity and lack of exercise can be risk factors.
  • Age: The risk increases with age.
  • Gender: Some conditions are more prevalent in certain genders.
  • Genetics: Family history can play a significant role.
  • Infections: Certain infections can trigger rheumatological conditions.
  • Lifestyle: Poor diet, smoking, and excessive alcohol consumption can contribute.
  • Occupation: Jobs that require repetitive motion or heavy lifting.
  • Pollution: Environmental factors can influence the onset.
  • Poor Posture: Improper posture can lead to musculoskeletal issues.
  • Sitting for Long Periods: Sedentary lifestyles can increase risk.

Choosing the right care for rheumatological conditions is critical. Our clinic offers:

  • Expertise: Our team includes highly experienced and board-certified rheumatologists.
  • Comprehensive Care: From diagnosis to treatment, we provide a full spectrum of rheumatology services.
  • Patient-Centered Approach: We tailor treatments to each patient’s unique needs.
  • Advanced Treatment Options: Access to the latest therapies and treatments.
  • Collaborative Care: Coordination with other specialists for holistic care.

Why Choose Cook County Health for Rheumatology?

Experienced Providers: Our skilled team includes board-certified doctors.
Comprehensive Care: We offer a full spectrum of services under one roof.
Community Focused: We are dedicated to improving the health of our community.
Patient-Centered Approach: We prioritize your well-being and health goals, offering personalized care plans.

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Schedule an appointment

Call us at: (312) 864-0200

Providers

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John P. Case, MD
John
P.
Case,
Rheumatoid arthritis, gout, general rheumatology
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Indira S. Hadley, MD
Indira
S.
Hadley,
MD
Osteoarthritis, Gout, Rheumatoid arthritis, Systemic lupus erythematosus, Vasculitis
Augustine M. Manadan, MD
Augustine M. Manadan, MD
Augustine
M.
Manadan,
MD
General rheumatology
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Ailda Nika, MD
Ailda
Nika,
General Rheumatology
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Mondira Sengupta, MD
Mondira
Sengupta,
MD
General rheumatology

Locations

Care Close to Home

High quality care with a large network of health care centers in Cook County

1969 W. Ogden Avenue
Chicago, IL 60612

(312) 864-6000
Hospitals
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Rheumatology
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