Department

The department of Rheumatology at Annapurna Neurological Institute & Allied Sciences focuses on the diagnosis, treatment, and management of rheumatic diseases and musculoskeletal disorders. The primary objective of our Rheumatology department is to address a wide range of autoimmune and inflammatory diseases that primarily affect the joints, muscles, bones, and connective tissues. Rheumatic diseases can be diverse and encompass conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, lupus, gout, ankylosing spondylitis, psoriatic arthritis, vasculitis, and many others.

We employ a variety of diagnostic methods to evaluate patients and confirm the presence of a rheumatic condition. These may include:

1. Comprehensive medical history and physical examination: Reviewing a patient's medical history and perform a detailed physical examination to assess symptoms, joint mobility, and overall musculoskeletal health.

2. Laboratory tests: Blood tests are commonly performed to detect specific markers and indicators of inflammation, autoimmunity, and other factors associated with rheumatic diseases. These tests may include analysis of rheumatoid factor, antinuclear antibodies (ANA), erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR), C-reactive protein (CRP), and others.

3. Imaging studies: X-rays, ultrasound, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and computed tomography (CT) scans may be utilized to evaluate joint and musculoskeletal abnormalities, assess disease progression, and guide treatment decisions.

Once a diagnosis is made, we develop and implement individualized treatment plans for patients. Treatment options may include:

1. Medications: to manage symptoms, reduce inflammation, modify disease progression, and alleviate pain. These may include nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs), biologic agents, corticosteroids, and others.

2. Joint and soft tissue injections:  Injections of corticosteroids or other medications directly into affected joints or soft tissues to reduce inflammation and relieve pain.

3. Physical therapy and rehabilitation:  Refer patients to physical therapists who specialize in rheumatologic conditions. Physical therapy helps improve joint mobility, strengthen muscles, and enhance overall function and quality of life.

4. Patient education and self-management:  Provide education and guidance to patients regarding their condition, lifestyle modifications, exercise, diet, and strategies for managing symptoms and improving overall well-being.

In addition to treatment, we also offer comprehensive multidisciplinary care, collaborating with other specialists such as orthopedic surgeons, physical medicine and rehabilitation specialists, and occupational therapists to provide holistic care for patients with complex needs.We work closely with other healthcare professionals to ensure coordinated and comprehensive care. This may involve collaborating with primary care physicians, dermatologists, pulmonologists, nephrologists, and other specialists, depending on the specific needs of each patient.

Our department of Rheumatology is dedicated to improving the quality of life for patients with rheumatic diseases. Through accurate diagnosis, effective treatment strategies, patient education, and ongoing research, rheumatologists aim to manage symptoms, prevent complications, and promote optimal health and well-being for their patients.