Rheumatology

Arthritis, the most common cause of disability in the United States, refers to inflammation and often deterioration of the joints, associated tendons, ligaments and muscles, resulting in pain, stiffness and disability.

At Virginia Mason Franciscan Health's Rheumatology Department our providers specialize in the treatment of rheumatologic and immunologic disorders. This diagnostic and therapeutic work is done in close connection with orthopedic, pulmonary and rehabilitation specialists.

We also partner with the Benaroya Research Institute at Virginia Mason (BRI), an international leader in immune system and autoimmune disease research, to achieve the maximum benefit for arthritis sufferers.

We provide treatment at Virginia Mason Medical Center, Virginia Mason Franciscan Health Medical Pavilion – Bainbridge Island, Virginia Mason Franciscan Health Medical Pavilion – Edmonds, Virginia Mason Franciscan Health Medical Pavilion – Federal Way and Virginia Mason Franciscan Health Medical Pavilion – Kirkland. 

View our appointment information and locations.

• Meet our providers

In rheumatoid arthritis the synovium becomes inflamed and produces excess fluid, causing the cartilage to become rough and pitted.

• Virginia Mason Franciscan Health's rheumatologists specialize in the diagnosis, treatment and management of all rheumatologic and immunologic disorders. Learn more about the conditions we treat.
• Ankylosing spondylitis
• Giant cell (temporal) arteritis
• Myositis
• Psoriatic arthropathy
• Scleroderma
• Sjogren's syndrome
• Vasculitis
• Connective tissue diseases
• Gout
• Lupus
• Polymyalgia rheumatica
• Rheumatoid arthritis 
• Wegener's granulomatosis

Our investigators participate in a wide range of clinical trials and studies focused on identifying new drugs or diagnostics or understanding the pathogenesis of rheumatic diseases. Learn more.

• Appointments and forms
• Information about your visit
• Frequently asked questions about rheumatology
• Patient education and support tools