Pediatric rheumatology

Pediatric rheumatology disorders are complex diseases that can affect your child’s joints, muscles, bones and tendons, often leading to pain and discomfort.

At Advocate Children’s Hospital, our nationally recognized pediatric rheumatology team offers comprehensive evaluations, diagnoses and treatments for children with a range of rheumatic conditions, including juvenile arthritis and systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE).

Whether your child is experiencing musculoskeletal pain, joint swelling or other symptoms related to an autoimmune disorder, we are here for you to provide the care your child needs. We offer a full spectrum of care, from medications to physical therapy and psychosocial support.

A pediatric rheumatologist specializes in diagnosing and treating autoimmune diseases and inflammatory conditions that affect the joints, muscles and bones in children. These specialists understand the unique needs of your child, including how rheumatic conditions impact their growth and development.

Pediatric rheumatologists at Advocate Children’s Hospital provide expert care for children with conditions like juvenile arthritis, lupus and other autoimmune diseases. They also monitor the effects of treatment on your child's growth to ensure their overall health and development are well-supported.

Your child may need to see a pediatric rheumatologist if they experience symptoms such as persistent joint pain, swelling, stiffness or musculoskeletal pain that doesn’t seem to have an obvious cause.

Rheumatic conditions, such as juvenile arthritis or lupus, often affect the immune system, causing the body to attack its own tissues and leading to inflammation and discomfort. Other symptoms, such as unexplained fever, rashes or abnormal blood tests, might also prompt a referral to a pediatric rheumatologist.

Our board-certified pediatric rheumatologists are leaders in their field and are involved in innovative research on conditions such as juvenile rheumatoid arthritis and lupus (SLE). Their work has been nationally recognized for advancing pediatric rheumatology care.

We provide long-term follow-up care to monitor how your child’s condition and treatments impact their growth and overall health.

Our team collaborates closely with pediatric orthopedists, ophthalmologists and other specialists to ensure comprehensive care, especially for conditions such as arthritis that can affect multiple systems in the body.

Pediatric rheumatology diseases are complicated disorders with complex symptoms. Our team of pediatric rheumatologists are experienced in diagnosing and treating a wide range of autoimmune and inflammatory diseases, including:

We understand how these conditions can affect not just your child’s physical health but also their emotional well-being, and we’re here to support you and your child every step of the way.

Treating pediatric rheumatology conditions early is essential to prevent long-term complications, such as joint or muscle damage. At Advocate Children’s Hospital, we offer a wide range of treatments and services for children with rheumatic conditions, including:

Diagnostic testing for autoimmune and inflammatory diseases
Medications to manage symptoms and control inflammation
Occupational therapy to help children with daily activities
Physical therapy to improve mobility and reduce pain
Psychosocial support to help children and families cope with the challenges of chronic illness

Our pediatric rheumatologists are board-certified and have been recognized nationally for their expertise in treating pediatric rheumatic conditions. They work closely with other specialists to provide a comprehensive approach to care, making sure your child receives the proper treatment and support.

Find an Advocate Children’s Hospital rheumatologist near you.