Rheumatic diseases consist of more than 100 conditions, including all forms of arthritis (e.g., rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis), certain autoimmune diseases (e.g., systemic lupus), musculoskeletal pain disorders and osteoporosis. Rheumatic diseases can affect virtually any part of the body. They are usually associated with inflammation (swelling and redness), almost always accompanied by pain and have symptoms that can have a profound effect on the ability to perform daily activities.

Rheumatology Services at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center comprises a multidisciplinary team of experts, including rheumatologists, sports medicine specialists, nurses, physical and occupational therapists, pharmacists, psychologists, social workers, research scientists and other health professionals. Team members collaborate to diagnose, treat and monitor these chronic conditions, and they work with each patient to develop an individualized treatment program.

The rheumatologists at Cedars-Sinai are physicians - usually internists or pediatricians - who have special training and experience in diagnosing and treating these often complex diseases.

Cedars-Sinai's world-renowned research scientists are investigating the causes of these conditions in an effort to find better treatments and cures. Patients with rheumatic conditions have an opportunity to participate in clinical trials that are designed to test the effectiveness of promising new approaches to treatment.