Rheumatoid arthritis treatment in Dubai

Where in Dubai

Dr. Subhash Ushakoyala, Specialist Orthopaedic Surgeon, sees patients with rheumatoid arthritis at Grand Infinity Medical Center in Al Muteena, Deira, Dubai. Bring your recent blood test results, any X-rays, and a list of all your medicines with their doses. If a rheumatologist already treats you, bring their latest letter too.

What is rheumatoid arthritis?

Rheumatoid arthritis is a long-term condition in which the immune system attacks the lining of the joints by mistake. The lining becomes inflamed, so the joints are painful, swollen and stiff. It most often starts in the hands, wrists and feet, usually on both sides of the body. Stiffness is often worst in the morning and can last more than half an hour. It comes in flares, with calmer spells between. Over time the inflammation can damage cartilage, bone and the tendons around a joint. There is no cure, but early treatment can control it and protect the joints. Rheumatoid arthritis can also cause tiredness and affect other parts of the body.

Common signs

• Painful, swollen joints in the hands, wrists or feet, often on both sides.
• Stiffness in the morning that lasts longer than 30 minutes.
• A joint that is badly worn or deformed despite medicine.
• Swelling over the back of the wrist, or a finger that suddenly cannot straighten.
• Tiredness, low energy or a general feeling of being unwell with joint pain.

How Dr. Subhash approaches it

His services list includes the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis among the medical conditions he treats. Dr. Subhash assesses the painful joints, arranges X-rays and blood tests, and treats pain and swelling. The long-term medicines that change the course of the disease are usually directed by a rheumatologist. Where a joint or tendon is damaged, he explains the orthopaedic options, from splints and injections to surgery.

What to expect

1. 01

   Consultation

   He asks which joints hurt, how long stiffness lasts in the morning, about flares, and about medicines you already take.

2. 02

   Examination

   He checks each painful joint for swelling and movement, and looks at the tendons of the hands and wrists.

3. 03

   Tests

   Blood tests look for inflammation and the markers of rheumatoid arthritis. X-rays show any damage to the joints.

4. 04

   Easing symptoms

   Painkillers, anti-inflammatory medicine or a steroid injection into a painful joint can help during a flare.

5. 05

   Working with a rheumatologist

   Disease-modifying medicines are usually started and monitored by a rheumatologist.

6. 06

   Joint care

   Physiotherapy keeps joints moving. Surgery is considered when a joint is badly damaged or a tendon has torn.

Getting better

Every patient is different. These are typical milestones, not a promise; your own plan comes from your consultation.

• Disease-modifying medicines can take a few months to work, so keep taking them as prescribed.
• A steroid injection gives short-term relief while longer-term medicine takes effect.
• Regular exercise and physiotherapy help keep joints flexible and muscles strong.

Risks to know about

• Poorly controlled rheumatoid arthritis can damage joints and tendons and raises the risk of heart and lung problems.
• Steroids are kept short term because long-term use has serious side effects.

When to book a visit

Where to book