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- Physical therapist. This health professional can work with you to develop a plan of exercises that will improve joint function and strengthen muscles without causing further harm to affected areas.
- Occupational therapist. This health professional can teach ways to protect joints and muscles, minimize pain, conserve energy, and exercise. Occupational therapists specialize in the upper extremities (hands, wrists, elbows, arms, shoulders, and neck).
- Counselor or psychologist. Living with a chronic disease isn’t easy. Patients may benefit from sorting out their feelings with a psychologist or counselor trained to help in this situation. Members of the patient's family may benefit from counseling as well.
- Ophthalmologist. If your medications or condition (such as certain forms of arthritis) can affect the eyes, catching problems early can help keep them from becoming serious. Having regular exams by an ophthalmologist (eye doctor) will aid to detect eye inflammation.
- Dentist and orthodontist. Dental care can be difficult if a patient's hands are so affected by conditions such as arthritis, that thorough brushing and flossing of the teeth becomes difficult. Therefore, regular dental exams are important.
- Orthopaedic surgeon. For some patients, surgery is necessary to help minimize or repair the effects of their condition. Orthopaedic surgeons are doctors who perform surgery on the joints and bones.
- Dietitian. For patients with chronic diseases, good nutrition is particularly important. A dietitian can help design a nutritious diet that will benefit the whole family.
- Pharmacist. A pharmacist is a good source of information about medications, including possible side effects and drugs that have the potential to interact with one another. If a patiuent has trouble swallowing large pills or taking other medication, the pharmacist may have suggestions for different ways to take the medication.
- Social worker. A social worker can help a child and his or her family deal with life and lifestyle changes caused by their condition. A social worker also can help you identify helpful resources for your child.
- Orthopedic Nurse. A nurse will likely will be intimately involved in a patient's care, serving as the main point of contact with the doctor’s office concerning appointments, tests, medications, and instructions.
- School nurse. For a school-age child, the school nurse also may be considered a member of the treatment team, particularly if the child is required to take medications regularly during school hours.
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