Treating arthritis often requires a multidisciplinary or team approach. Many types of health professionals care for people with arthritis. You may choose a few or more of the following professionals to be part of your health care team:

Primary care physicians: doctors who treat patients before they are referred to other specialists in the health care system.

Rheumatologists: doctors who specialize in treating arthritis and related conditions that affect joints, muscles, and bones.

Orthopaedists: surgeons who specialize in the treatment of, and surgery for, bone and joint diseases.

Physical therapists: health professionals who work with patients to improve joint function.

Occupational therapists: health professionals who teach ways to protect joints, minimize pain, perform activities of daily living, and conserve energy.

Dietitians: health professionals who teach ways to use a good diet to improve health and maintain a healthy weight.

Nurse educators: nurses who specialize in helping patients understand their overall condition and implement their treatment plans.

Physiatrists (rehabilitation specialists): medical doctors who help patients make the most of their physical potential.

Licensed acupuncture therapists: health professionals who reduce pain and improve physical functioning by inserting fine needles into the skin at specific points on the body.

Psychologists: health professionals who seek to help patients cope with difficulties in the home and workplace resulting from their medical conditions.

Social workers: professionals who assist patients with social challenges caused by disability, unemployment, financial hardships, home health care, and other needs resulting from their medical conditions.

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