Rheumatology Toronto
Rheumatology (Rheumatology Toronto) is a sub-specialty of Medicine devoted to diagnosing and treating rheumatic diseases and chronic pain/disorders. Rheumatologists deal mainly with clinical problems involving joint, soft issues, autoimmune diseases, vasculitides and heritable connective tissue disorders. Since many rheumatic disorders lead to joint stiffness & swelling, loss of muscle strength, impaired mobility and reduced overall function. In conjunctin with medicinal drugs, Physiotherapy is often an integral part of disease management through manual joint or soft tissue mobilization, Therapeutic modalities as needed and an appropriately devised exercise program.
Dr. Carolina Landolt – Rheumatology Toronto
Dr. Carolina Landolt is a respected Rheumatologist who was once a Physician at the accredited Lupus Clinic at Toronto Western hospital. She joined MATRIX Physiotherapy last year performing In-Clinic consultations & procedures for Rheumatic disorders, Chronic impairments, and various Musculoskeletal conditions. We are proud to have Dr. Landolt be apart of our interdisciplinary team bringing together medicinal needs and the benefits of Physiotherapy and exercise training to our patients.
On-site cortisone injections for inflammed or painful joints & muscles, and local aspiration available in-clinic.
A Physician’s referral is needed to book a Rheumatology Toronto Consultation which can typically be booked with Dr. Landolt within 1-2weeks time.
Common Rheumatic Disorders/Conditions
Osteoarthritis
Osteoathritis (OA) is a joint disorder associated with the degenerative breakdown of joint cartilage and the underlying bone. There are varying degrees of this process through the regular process of aging but the joint surface deterioration can be accelerated by activities involving excessive joint friction, traumatic injuries, and even genetic predisposition to joint breakdown in a person’s family history. OA findings and symptoms commonly affect Knees, Hips, Necks (Cervical spine) or Low Backs (Lumbar spine).
Rotator Cuff Tendonitis
Rotator cuff tendinitis affects the tendons and muscles that help move and stabilize your shoulder joint. The enlarged or swollen tendons become inflammed or irritated leading to pain touch, pain with movement, loss strength and reduced function. Rotator cuff tendinitis is also called impingement syndrome.
This condition usually occurs over time. It can be the result of keeping your shoulder in one position for a while, sleeping on your shoulder every night, or participating in activities that require lifting your arm over your head. Sometimes rotator cuff tendinitis can occur without any known cause or trigger which are typically associated with degenerative or repetitive stress.
Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA)
Rheumatoid arthritis is a chronic inflammatory disorder that can affect more than just your joints. In some people, the condition can damage a wide variety of body systems, including the skin, eyes, lungs, heart and blood vessels.
An autoimmune disorder, rheumatoid arthritis occurs when your immune system mistakenly attacks your own body’s healthy tissues. Unlike the wear-and-tear damage of osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis affects the lining of your joints, causing a painful swelling that can eventually result in bone erosion and joint deformity. Light to moderate exercise is often recommended as an integral part of its management.
Ganglion Cysts
A Ganglion cyst a small sac of fluid that forms over a joint or tendon (tissue that connects muscle to bone). Inside the cyst is a thick, sticky, clear, colorless, jellylike material. Depending on the size, cysts may feel firm or spongy. It is often affiliated with sustained or repetitive stress to the region causing localized irritation, swelling and fluid accumulation.
Ganglion cysts most commonly occur on the back of the hand at the wrist joint but they can also develop on the palm side of the wrist. When found on the back of the wrist, they become more prominent when the wrist is flexed forward.
Common Treatment Options
Oral Anti-Inflammatory Medication (over-the-counter or Prescription)
Referral for Physiotherapy and commencing appropriately monitored exercise program
Cortisone (Steroid) injection into a joint, muscle or tendon to decrease chronic inflammation and/or pain. Onset of relief can be immediate to improve function and quality of life.