An estimated 1.3 million adults have rheumatoid arthritis (RA). During the last two decades, advances have been made in the understanding of the pathophysiology of this condition. This increased knowledge lends itself to improved diagnosis and treatment of inflammatory arthritis. With these medical science advances, social determinants of health continue to affect persons with RA. Updated classification criteria for RA support the importance of early identification of those with this rheumatic disease. Biologics are important pharmacologic tools that can be used with traditional Disease Modifying Anti-Rheumatic Drugs (DMARDs) for appropriately selected RA patients. Updated RA treatment guidelines were published by the American College of Rheumatology in 2021. An RA integrative treatment guideline was also published in 2023. This session will provide an update on the latest diagnostic and treatment options for rheumatoid arthritis to aid the non-rheumatology PA in providing care to persons with RA.

Review basic MSK US imaging, procedures and alternatives

Back pain is a common reason that persons seek medical care. Several etiologies of back pain exist, including mechanical and pathological. Inflammatory back pain is also common and is often overlooked when persons present with back pain. The seronegative spondyloarthropathies are a family of inflammatory arthritides that should be considered when a person presents with low back pain. This presentation will focus on the presentation, work-up and treatment of inflammatory back pain and the diagnoses included in these conditions.

Restless legs syndrome (RLS) affects between 5-15% of adults, with 2-3% of adults having clinically significant symptoms and is a common disruptor of nighttime sleep. Treatment guidelines have changed dramatically over the past 15 years, with previously recommended treatments now recommended against. Discuss updated guidelines and practical strategies to ensure evidence-based treatment of restless legs syndrome and periodic limb movement disorder.