When pain and disability of a joint-related condition are interfering with your quality of life, you need the experienced care Ogechi Mbakwe, MD, can provide at Frontline Internal Medicine in Statesboro, Georgia. With a special interest in rheumatology, Dr. Mbakwe and her experienced staff provide long-term solutions for managing chronic joint conditions, including all forms of arthritis, lupus, and Sjogren’s syndrome. Learn more about treatment options available to alleviate your joint pain and improve your quality of life. Schedule an appointment online or by calling the Statesboro office.

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What rheumatology services are available?

Rheumatology is a medical specialty focusing on the diagnosis and treatment of a variety of joint conditions, such as arthritis, and other disorders affecting the musculoskeletal and immune systems and connective tissue.

Dr. Mbakwe has a special interest in rheumatology and offers comprehensive diagnosis and treatment options for conditions like:

  • Gout
  • Lupus
  • Tendinitis
  • Lyme disease
  • Scleroderma
  • Osteoarthritis
  • Rheumatoid arthritis

 

Dr. Mbakwe can also diagnose and treat Sjogren’s syndrome, an immune disorder that causes dry eyes and dry mouth.

Frontline Internal Medicine offers the latest advancements in diagnostics and treatment options to relieve pain, increase mobility, and help you manage your chronic condition effectively.

When should I consider a rheumatology consultation?

Early diagnosis and treatment of joint-related conditions is often the best way to ensure a good quality of life. Dr. Mbakwe recommends scheduling an evaluation as soon as you notice a change in your joint functionality.

With early treatment, Dr. Mbakwe can work closely with you to manage current symptoms and slow down the progression of your disorder. She can also recommend necessary lifestyle changes, including to your diet and activity level, to keep your body fit and reduce the worsening of your pain and other symptoms.

What is gout?

Gout is a form of inflammatory arthritis that causes sudden episodes of severe joint pain, swelling, and redness. These attacks often affect the big toe joint, making it feel as if your toe is on fire. However, gout attacks can affect any joint and are also common in the ankles, elbows, knees, and wrists.

Gout attacks result when high levels of uric acid build up in your blood. Your body produces this acid naturally and also gets it from foods, like seafood and organ meats. Normally uric acid dissolves in the bloodstream and moves out of your body, through the kidneys. When acid builds up, sharp-edged crystals form, triggering pain.

What treatment options are available for rheumatoid arthritis?

Rheumatoid arthritis is a chronic disorder causing painful inflammation in your joints. This condition is the result of an autoimmune disorder, which causes your body to attack its own healthy tissue. Without proper treatment, rheumatoid arthritis can cause joint deformity and erosion of your bones.

Dr. Mbakwe is highly experienced in managing rheumatoid arthritis and offers a variety of treatment options, including medications to slow down the progression of the disorder and alleviate your pain. She creates a custom treatment plan to address your specific needs and enhance your joint functionality.

To learn more about the rheumatology services available at Frontline Internal Medicine, book an appointment online or by phone.