Welcome to Seaside Rheumatology, the home of advanced rheumatological treatments in Encinitas, CA. Dr. Peter Lloyd is a highly skilled rheumatologist, with extensive experience treating rheumatoid arthritis, psoriatic arthritis, and other rheumatologic diseases. He embraces the latest scientific discoveries and technological innovations to deliver effective solutions.
Why see a rheumatologist?
Maybe you've been diagnosed with arthritis, but you are coping with it. Or perhaps you haven't seen a doctor yet. You have joint pain and stiffness, but you are doing okay. Why should you see a rheumatologist? The answer is twofold.
First of all, you deserve better than "okay." You deserve the freedom to move easily and live every day to the fullest. Secondly, rheumatic diseases are progressive. That means, without treatment symptoms can worsen. The bad days eventually outnumber the good days, and lasting joint damage or deformity can occur. Dr. Lloyd works with a variety of traditional and cutting-edge treatments to help patients find fast relief and, to slow or stop the progression of arthritic conditions.
What to expect when you see an Encinitas, CA rheumatologist
There are many types of inflammatory conditions that can affect the joints, and each one has unique characteristics. Therefore, accurate diagnosis is the first step in effective treatment. Dr. Lloyd begins with a comprehensive examination, review of your medical history, and relevant diagnostic tests such as musculoskeletal ultrasound.
Once your condition has been determined, the doctor will discuss a therapy plan, which may include interim treatments for fast relief along with slower acting medications and lifestyle changes for long-term maintenance.
Depending on your needs, treatment recommendations may include:
- Anti-inflammatory and pain relieving medications - Steroid treatments, NSAIDS, and similar medications may be beneficial for fast pain relief and reduction of inflammation. These are typically used short-term, because they do not treat the condition (only symptoms).
- Biologics - These innovative medications work by altering destructive responses within the body. They can stop or slow the progression of the disease, and may be recommended as a long-term treatment.
- Lifestyle changes and natural supplements - The elimination of triggers, optimization of diet, addition of naturally therapeutic compounds can help your body fight the effects of arthritic disease. Physical therapy, exercise, yoga, and other physical activities can improve joint functionality. These measures are recommended as an adjunct to clinical treatment.
- Other - We also help patients find relief through both traditional and high tech healing methods, ranging from acupuncture to ultrasound therapy.
Call Seaside Rheumatology and schedule an appointment with Dr. Lloyd today.