Rheumatic, autoimmune, and inflammatory diseases all involve a hyperactive immune system that attacks healthy joints, muscles, bones, and organs instead of fighting off bacteria, viruses, or other actual threats.
These conditions affect all ages, and in most cases it’s impossible to pin down the exact cause. However, we know that genetics, environment, the Western diet, lifestyle, and stress appear to play significant roles in determining each patient’s unique experience and clinical findings.
In the last 30 years, the number of people with autoimmune diseases has increased dramatically, likely due to the following factors:
Inherited predisposition to immune system dysfunction & chronic inflammation
Exposure to cigarette smoke, pesticides, solvents, certain microbes, certain drugs & more
High-fat, high-sugar and highly-processed foods linked to inflammation and autoimmune risk
Sedentary lifestyles & weight gain linked to chronic inflammation and autoimmune disease
Chronic stress & sleep deficits linked to increased cortisol & more inflammation
A comprehensive approach to improve pain, increase mobility and reduce inflammatory triggers that worsen rheumatic and autoimmune diseases.
Carefully monitored DMARDs, biologics, steroids, NSAIDs & other meds
Dr. Girnita's physical therapy & exercise program specifically for inflammatory arthritis & related conditions
1:1 consultation and online self-care coaching classes including nutrition & stress management
While visible symptoms may mainly affect a single area—like hand and wrist pain and stiffness—massive inflammation from the underlying disease usually affects your entire body.
This is why the whole-person approach is the best-in-class treatment model for rheumatic and autoimmune diseases.
It integrates multiple therapies that:
Treatment usually begins with personalized prescription drug therapy. Then, as quickly as possible, we tailor lifestyle medicine therapies to your specific needs to calm flare-ups and improve your quality of life.
Over time, this approach helps reduce or eliminate the need for medication while minimizing pain and other symptoms, and slowing or halting disease progression.
Get Dr. Girnita’s expert insights into new rheumatoid arthritis & autoimmune treatments
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+1 (650) 750-1633
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19712 MacArthur Blvd, Ste. 100
Irvine, CA 92612
Open Monday through Friday
9 AM – 5:30 PM PT
Appointments: (650) 525-4404
Main Fax: (650) 582 – 2895
Elation Patient Fax: (650) 451-1529
If you believe you may be experiencing a medical emergency, call 911 immediately.