Q: How do most patients get referred to a rheumatologist in the first place?
Kremer: Usually, it’s the pain that’s perceived to be arthritis pain. Sometimes it’s muscle pain. Other times it can just be a nagging pain from anywhere that the primary care provider cannot diagnose. It’s more helpful to be referred to a rheumatologist when there are other symptoms along with the pain, such as early joint swelling.
Q: What does the rheumatologist do when they see a referred patient?
Kremer:...
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