Who We Are

The Arthritis & Rheumatology Clinic in Shreveport, LA, is dedicated to treating our patients with inflammatory and many other disorders. We have been serving our community for over 100 years. Our clinic consists of 53 providers over 12 specialties, so you benefit from the convenience of having all your healthcare needs attended to under one roof.

Chronic inflammatory diseases like stroke, chronic respiratory diseases, heart disorders, cancer, obesity, and diabetes affect the lives of hundreds of thousands of Americans every year. The prevalence of diseases associated with chronic inflammation is anticipated to increase persistently for the next 30 years in the United States. In 2000, nearly 125 million Americans were living with chronic conditions, and 61 million (21%) had more than one. As a result, care for inflammatory diseases is expected to increase dramatically over the next several decades.

What is a Rheumatologist and What Do They Do?

A rheumatologist is a doctor who specializes in inflammatory (rheumatic) diseases. They treat many conditions, including:

• Arthritis: Such as rheumatoid arthritis, which can cause joint pain that lasts longer than six weeks.
• Autoimmune diseases: Such as lupus, fibromyalgia, and Sjögren’s syndrome.
• Joint inflammation and pain: Such as by injecting an anti-inflammatory medication directly into an affected joint.

These diseases can cause pain, swelling, and stiffness in joints, muscles, and bones. However, some diseases, such as lupus, can affect the entire body.

When Should I See a Rheumatologist?

Almost everyone experiences muscular or joint discomfort from time to time. However, if it lasts longer than a few days, you should see a rheumatologist.

Some rheumatic disorders might be difficult to identify in their early stages. However, because some of these disorders react best to early treatment, it’s advisable to visit a professional as soon as possible. They may cause permanent joint injury if not treated.

Autoimmune diseases occur when your immune system generates unwanted inflammation throughout your body. They can harm your skin, eyes, and internal organs, as well as your joints, muscles, and bones. If you have a family history of autoimmune disorders and you begin to experience symptoms, it’s best to speak to a rheumatologist immediately.

How to Prepare for An Appointment and What to Expect

A rheumatologist can make a diagnosis based on a thorough examination, which can include talking about your symptoms. Rheumatic disorders evolve with time, so a rheumatologist can provide a tailored treatment plan to help you manage your symptoms.

Rheumatologists begin with a physical examination and will inquire about your personal and family medical history. They use this information to determine what is causing your symptoms. You will want to bring along any prior imaging or testing you’ve had as well. Your rheumatologist might recommend treatments such as physical therapy, medication, joint injections, or surgery, depending on your diagnosis.

Conditions Treated

• Osteoarthritis: This is the most prevalent form of joint disease, often referred to as the “wear-and-tear” variety, and its likelihood increases with age. It results from the breakdown of the cartilage that normally cushions the joints, leading to stiffness, pain, and reduced flexibility. It predominantly affects the hands, knees, hips, and spine.
• Rheumatoid Arthritis: Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune condition that affects the joint linings. Inflammation is triggered by the presence of immune system cells that mistakenly target local joint tissues. This inflammation leads to the destruction of cartilage and bone.
• Lupus: Lupus is an autoimmune condition that can affect the skin, internal organs, blood, brain, bones, and joints. Inflammation can induce arthritis in various joints, including the hands, elbows, shoulders, knees, and feet.
• Gout: Typically, gout affects the joint connecting the big toe to the rest of the foot. It arises from an excess of uric acid in the blood, which forms crystals in the joints, resulting in extreme pain. It frequently occurs during the night and is more common in men, with women becoming more vulnerable after menopause.
• Bursitis: Bursitis is the inflammation of small, fluid-filled sacs known as bursae, which serve to cushion the joints, tendons, muscles, and bones. This inflammation can be triggered by bacterial infections, overuse, or sudden injury, leading to painful flare-ups.
• Osteoporosis: Osteoporosis occurs when bones become brittle and fragile due to the loss of bone tissue, typically resulting from hormonal changes or a deficiency in calcium or vitamin D.
• Psoriasis: Psoriasis is characterized by the accumulation of immune system blood cells called T-cells in the skin, which prompts rapid skin cell reproduction. This results in inflamed, red patches, often with silver-white scaly plaques on the skin surface.
• Scleroderma: Scleroderma is a chronic connective tissue disease that causes the hardening and tightening of the skin.
• Ankylosing Spondylitis and Vasculitis: These are chronic inflammatory diseases that primarily involve the spine and the sacroiliac joint. Common symptoms include chronic low back pain and morning stiffness, along with inflammation of small veins.
• Other Metabolic Bone Diseases: These disorders are usually caused by abnormalities in minerals, vitamin D, bone mass, or bone structures.

Trust the Expertise of Highland Clinic

For over 85 years, Highland Clinic has been a one-stop shop for Shreveport, Bossier City, and Ark-La-Tex area providing quality healthcare services. We have five locations to serve our community which include the Main Campus, Highland Eye Clinic, Pediatric Ophthalmology, Minden Cancer Center, and our Bossier Location. Our providers have recognized the benefits of being associated with Highland Clinic because our clinic is doctor-owned, not an HMO. Highland Clinic Rheumatology is dedicated to the diagnosis and treatment of patients suffering from arthritis and other rheumatic diseases. Contact us today for more information.

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