FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between orthopaedic and rheumatologist doctor? Who should I see for joint problems?

In general terms, both treat problems of the musculoskeletal system but the rheumatologist does it mostly with medications and the orthopaedic doctor does it with surgery. For oversimplification: If the cause of joint pain is not crystal clear it may be wise to see a rheumatologists first. Rheumatologists are specially trained to do the detective work necessary to discover the cause of joint swelling and pain. It’s important to determine a correct diagnosis early so that appropriate treatment can begin early. It is now well established that early treatment helps to prevent long-term joint damage and thus avoids need for surgical treatment.

Can alternative therapy cure my arthritis?

Some people claim to have been cured by treatment with herbs, oils, special diets or exercise alone. However, there is no scientific evidence that such treatments cure arthritis. Importantly, these unregulated treatment modalities may cause serious side effects. Also, delayed conventional treatment can cause irreversible joint damage.

Is it true that there are no side effects from ayurvedic or other alternative medicines used in the treatment of rheumatic diseases?

Ayurvedic medicine uses a variety of products and practices. Like other unregulated traditional medicines, Ayurvedic products have suffered from poor quality. Some Ayurvedic products have been contaminated with prescription drugs including steroids and high concentrations of heavy metals including mercury, arsenic, and lead.
If you are thinking about using ayurvedic medicine –

You should consult a qualified rheumatologist for more information about your illness and implications of delayed conventional therapy.

Do not use Ayurvedic medicine to postpone seeing a specialist.

Tell your rheumatologist about any complementary medicines you use. This will help to ensure coordinated and safe care.

For more information please visit http://nccam.nih.gov/health/ayurveda/introduction.htm

Allopathy medicines used in the treatment of rheumatic diseases cause lot of "Side effects"

Allopathy is the most prevalent system of medicines used worldwide today. Interestingly, while you may have experienced side effects from a particular drug, another person taking the same drug may not have any side effects. Side effects from a drug depend on several factors such as age, general health, gender, severity of disease, previous drug allergies etc. These medications are safe as long as you are having a regular checks by your rheumatologist.

Deep massage, Yoga and Acupuncture will cure my Rheumatic disease/Arthritis!

You may experience a temporary symptom relief however there is no scientific evidence that such treatments cure arthritis.