Rheumatoid Arthritis
Expert diagnosis and personalized treatment at Arthritis Care of Los Angeles.
What is Rheumatoid Arthritis?
Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic autoimmune disease where the body's immune system mistakenly attacks the lining of the joints, called the synovium. This causes inflammation that can damage joint tissue and lead to long-lasting pain, stiffness, swelling, and reduced movement. RA most commonly affects the small joints of the hands and feet, but it can involve any joint in the body. Unlike wear-and-tear arthritis (osteoarthritis), RA can also affect other organs including the heart, lungs, and eyes. Early diagnosis and treatment are key to preventing permanent joint damage.
Common Symptoms
- Joint pain and tenderness, especially in the hands, wrists, and feet
- Morning stiffness lasting more than 30 minutes
- Swelling in multiple joints, often on both sides of the body
- Fatigue and low energy
- Low-grade fever
- Loss of appetite and weight loss
- Firm bumps under the skin (rheumatoid nodules)
- Reduced range of motion in affected joints
Experiencing these symptoms? Get expert care today.
How is Rheumatoid Arthritis Diagnosed?
Diagnosing rheumatoid arthritis involves a combination of physical examination, blood tests, and imaging studies. Blood tests may include rheumatoid factor (RF), anti-CCP antibodies, erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR), and C-reactive protein (CRP). X-rays, ultrasound, or MRI scans help detect joint inflammation and damage. Dr. Forouzesh takes a thorough approach, reviewing your complete history and symptoms to ensure an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment plan.
Treatment Options
Disease-Modifying Drugs (DMARDs)
Medications like methotrexate that slow disease progression and prevent joint damage. These are typically the first line of treatment.
Biologic Therapies
Targeted medications that block specific parts of the immune system driving inflammation, such as TNF inhibitors, IL-6 inhibitors, and B-cell therapies.
JAK Inhibitors
Newer oral medications that target specific pathways inside immune cells to reduce inflammation and slow joint damage.
Corticosteroids
Short-term use of prednisone or joint injections to quickly reduce inflammation and relieve pain during flare-ups.
Physical Therapy
Exercises and techniques to maintain joint flexibility, strengthen muscles around affected joints, and improve daily function.
Lifestyle Management
Guidance on exercise, nutrition, stress management, and joint protection strategies to complement medical treatment.
Key Statistics
1.3 Million
Americans living with rheumatoid arthritis
Source: American College of Rheumatology
75%
Of RA patients are women
Source: NIH/NIAMS
30-60
Most common age of onset (years)
Source: Arthritis Foundation
Frequently Asked Questions
Ready to Get Expert Care?
Schedule your appointment with Dr. Solomon Forouzesh, MD, FACP, FACR — a board-certified rheumatologist with 50++ years of expertise in arthritis and autoimmune diseases.