Best Rheumatologist in Pune- Dr. Laxmi Waprani

Rheumatology is a subspecialty of medicine which deals with diagnosis and treatment of diseases of bones, joints, muscles, ligaments, tendons and connective tissue.
Rheumatological disorders range from chronically disabling arthritis like rheumatoid arthritis and ankylosing spondylitis to multisystem diseases like vasculitis to milder but nagging and persistent pains like chronic back pain & neck pain.

A board-certified internist or pediatrician with a focus on the diagnosis and care of conditions affecting the bones, muscles, and joints, such as arthritis, is known as a rheumatologist.

Joint disorders that can be treated medically ( i.e without surgery ) are treated by a rheumatologist. Orthopedic surgeons specialize in surgical treatments and in the management of fractures.

Signs You Should See a Rheumatologist 

1. Persistent Joint Pain or Swelling

If you have joint pain or stiffness, that lasts beyond 4-6 weeks, especially in the mornings, it could be an early sign of rheumatoid arthritis or another inflammatory arthritis. Delaying care can lead to joint damage. 

2. Stiffness That Lasts More Than 30 Minutes in the Morning

Morning stiffness lasting beyond 30–60 minutes is often due to inflammation — not aging or simple wear and tear (like osteoarthritis). It’s a classic feature of autoimmune arthritis. 

3. Low Back Pain That Improves with Movement

Chronic back pain that starts before age 40 and improves with exercise (not rest) may be due to ankylosing spondylitis, an autoimmune condition affecting the spine. 

4. Sudden Swelling in One Joint (Like the Big Toe or Knee)

This can be a red flag for gout, which is caused by high uric acid levels. Repeated gout attacks can damage joints and kidneys if not treated properly. 

5. Unexplained Fatigue, Rashes, or Mouth Ulcers

These symptoms , especially in young women,  may be early signs of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) or other connective tissue diseases. A rheumatologist can perform the right tests and tailor a management plan. 

6. Positive Blood Tests (Like ANA, RF, Anti-CCP)

If your general physician finds abnormal autoimmune markers, it’s time to see a specialist to interpret the results correctly and decide if treatment is needed. 

7. Family History of Autoimmune Disease

Autoimmune conditions can run in families. If close relatives have RA, lupus, psoriasis, or thyroid disease — and you’re experiencing symptoms — early screening may help. 

🕒 Why Early Diagnosis Matters 

Many rheumatological conditions are progressive. That means the longer they go untreated, the more they can damage joints, organs, and quality of life. 

🌟 The good news? Most conditions can be managed very well if caught early — allowing patients to regain mobility, independence, and hope.