
Hosted by American College of Rheumatology · EN

For years, myositis treatment has relied on broad immune suppression with drugs like steroids, methotrexate, and rituximab—but what if we could target the disease more precisely? Inflammatory myopathies are not a single condition, but a group of biologically distinct syndromes with different clinical features and immune pathways. As our understanding evolves, so does the potential for more personalized, targeted therapies. In this episode, we're joined by Dr. Julie J. Paik to discuss how this shift could reshape the future of myositis treatment.

In this episode, we discuss the growing workforce challenges in rheumatology with nurse practitioner Chris Estes. Chris shares how he entered the field, the training he received early in his career, and how he developed expertise in musculoskeletal ultrasound. The conversation explores how advanced practice providers (APPs) can help address rheumatology workforce shortages by expanding access to care—seeing new patients, managing follow-ups, and working both collaboratively and independently within a practice. Chris also discusses training pathways for new APPs, common misconceptions practices may have, and how investing in APP development may be an important strategy for the future of rheumatology care.

In this episode, we explore a potential paradigm shift in the treatment of Rheumatoid Arthritis. For years, pharmacologic interventions have been the cornerstone of management, but now a groundbreaking approach is emerging. John Tesser, principal investigator in a pioneering study, discusses the use of an implantable device that stimulates the vagus nerve. By tapping into the body's nervous system to reduce inflammation, this novel approach offers a promising alternative to traditional drug treatments. Tune in to learn how this innovative technology could reshape the future of Rheumatoid Arthritis care.