Rheumatoid Arthritis

4 MIN READ· PHYSICIAN-REVIEWED· UPDATED 2026

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune disease in which the immune system attacks the joint lining, causing pain, swelling, stiffness, and over time, joint damage. At Premier Rheumatology in Boca Raton, FL and Queens, NY, our board-certified rheumatologists diagnose and treat RA using current guidelines — including DMARDs, JAK inhibitors, and on-site biologic and IV infusion therapy, so patients don't need a separate infusion-center referral to start advanced treatment.

Rheumatoid arthritis is a chronic inflammatory condition that primarily affects the joints, often leading to pain, swelling, stiffness, and reduced mobility. It is considered an autoimmune disease, meaning the immune system plays a central role in driving inflammation within the joints. When not properly managed, rheumatoid arthritis may progressively affect joint structure and daily function.

This condition can impact individuals at various stages of life and often requires long-term management. With appropriate care, many people with rheumatoid arthritis are able to manage symptoms effectively and maintain an active and fulfilling lifestyle.

What Is Rheumatoid Arthritis?

Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune inflammatory arthritis in which the immune system targets the lining of the joints, known as the synovium. This ongoing inflammation can cause thickening of the joint lining, fluid accumulation, and damage to cartilage and bone over time.

Unlike degenerative arthritis, rheumatoid arthritis commonly affects joints symmetrically and may involve the hands, wrists, knees, feet, and other joints. It is a systemic condition, meaning inflammation may extend beyond the joints in some individuals.

Common Symptoms

Common symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis may include:

Joint pain, swelling, and tenderness
Prolonged morning stiffness
Symmetrical involvement of joints on both sides of the body
Fatigue or generalized weakness
Reduced grip strength or difficulty with fine motor tasks
Warmth or redness around affected joints

Symptoms may fluctuate, with periods of increased activity (flares) and times of relative improvement.

What Causes Rheumatoid Arthritis?

The precise cause of rheumatoid arthritis is not fully understood, but several contributing factors are recognized:

Autoimmune activation leading to chronic joint inflammation
Genetic susceptibility
Environmental factors, such as infections or smoking
Hormonal influences that may affect immune response

These factors may combine differently in each individual, influencing disease severity and progression.

How Is Rheumatoid Arthritis Diagnosed?

Diagnosis is based on a combination of clinical findings and diagnostic testing, including:

Review of symptoms and physical joint examination
Blood tests assessing inflammatory markers and immune-related indicators
Imaging studies to evaluate joint inflammation or structural changes

Early diagnosis can be important in guiding treatment decisions and limiting potential joint damage.

Treatment Options for Rheumatoid Arthritis

Treatment is individualized and may change over time. Management strategies often include:

Anti-inflammatory and immune-modulating medications when appropriate
Advanced therapies designed to reduce disease activity
Infusion-based treatments for certain patients
Physical and occupational therapy to support joint function
Lifestyle strategies focused on maintaining mobility and strength

The overall aim is to reduce inflammation, manage symptoms, and help preserve joint health.

When to See a Rheumatologist

You may benefit from a rheumatology evaluation if you experience:

Persistent joint pain and swelling
Morning stiffness lasting more than an hour
Symptoms affecting multiple joints
Fatigue or systemic symptoms associated with joint issues

Early assessment may help guide appropriate long-term management.

Our Approach to Treating Rheumatoid Arthritis

Our approach emphasizes personalized, long-term care tailored to each patient’s needs. We focus on careful monitoring, adjusting treatment strategies as needed, and coordinating care to address both joint-related and systemic aspects of the condition.

For patients requiring advanced or infusion therapies, we offer access to these treatments in a structured and supportive environment. Our goal is to help patients manage disease activity while maintaining function and quality of life.

Schedule a Consultation

If you are experiencing symptoms consistent with rheumatoid arthritis, scheduling a consultation can help clarify your diagnosis and explore appropriate treatment options in a supportive clinical setting.

Available on-site in Boca Raton

On-site biologic & IV infusion therapy

Receive your infusion treatment in the same office where you see your rheumatologist — no separate infusion-center referral needed.

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Common questions

Frequently asked

What's the difference between rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis?+

Rheumatoid arthritis is autoimmune-driven inflammation that attacks the joint lining and typically affects joints symmetrically. Osteoarthritis is mechanical wear-and-tear of cartilage that develops in specific joints over time. The treatments are very different — RA usually requires immune-modulating medication, while osteoarthritis is managed with activity modification, physical therapy, and pain control.

How soon should I see a rheumatologist after RA is suspected?+

As soon as possible. Early treatment of rheumatoid arthritis — ideally within the first 3 to 6 months of symptoms — has been shown to reduce long-term joint damage and improve the chance of achieving remission.

Do I have to drive to a separate infusion center for biologics?+

No. Our Boca Raton office offers on-site biologic and IV infusion therapy, so RA patients can receive their medications in the same office where they see their rheumatologist.

Will my insurance cover biologic infusions for RA?+

Most major commercial insurance plans and Medicare cover biologic infusions for RA when medically necessary. Our team handles prior authorization and benefit verification before treatment begins.

How long does the first rheumatology appointment take?+

Plan for about 60 to 90 minutes for a new-patient rheumatology evaluation. This includes review of medical history, a focused joint exam, basic lab review, and a treatment plan discussion.

Can rheumatoid arthritis go into remission?+

Yes — many patients achieve clinical remission, meaning minimal or no joint inflammation, with appropriate treatment. Remission is the goal of modern RA care, especially when treatment begins early.

Are biologics safe long-term?+

Biologic medications have been used for over two decades and have a well-studied safety profile. Patients are monitored regularly with labs and clinical visits, and your rheumatologist will adjust treatment if any concerns arise.