expert type icon EXPERT

Dr. Thomas Olenginski, M.D.

Rheumatologist

Dr. Thomas Olenginski is a rheumatologist practicing in Danville, PA. Dr. Olenginski specializes in the treatment of musculoskeletal diseases and systematic autoimmune conditions that can affect the bones, muscles or bones. Eventually, if not treated, these illnesses can also impact the skin, eyes, nervous system and internal organs. Dr. Olenginski treats diseases similar to orthopedists but does not perform surgery. Often times, research is conducted to find potential alternatives for the patients illness.
45 years Experience
Dr. Thomas Olenginski, M.D.
  • Danville, PA
  • Penn State University
  • Accepting new patients

Is this arthritis?

Stiffness is a very common sign of arthritis and you should be evaluated

Diabetes is a very common cause of hand stiffness as is hypothyroidism

Is there a therapy to treat painful swollen joints?

Important to get accurate diagnosis If this is rheumatoid arthritis, there are specific drugs that are disease specific Painkillers are not effective for most arthritis conditions READ MORE
Important to get accurate diagnosis
If this is rheumatoid arthritis, there are specific drugs that are disease specific
Painkillers are not effective for most arthritis conditions
Good Luck!

My dad has been diagnosed with osteoarthritis. Is surgery required for him?

Yes
1) Weight Loss
2) exercise
3) physical therapy
4) topical Diclofenac cream
5) steroid injection
6) ? Hyaluronic acid injections

Help with neck muscle stiffness

My advice would be to try physical therapy and see how you do as compared to massage therapy

I am taking natural medication for my RA. How long will the treatment take?

“Natural” treatment is destined to fail and be ineffective RA is an unnatural state where the immune system is triggered to produce cytokines RA is a potentially disabling illness READ MORE
“Natural” treatment is destined to fail and be ineffective
RA is an unnatural state where the immune system is triggered to produce cytokines
RA is a potentially disabling illness if not treated optimally

None of our RA treatment guidelines endorse natural treatments

Please see a Rheumatologist and work together! Good Luck!

Are there natural ways to treat gout?

most gout patients need medication to most effectively control uric acid levels but, weight loss and exercise and Diet can help If taking a diuretic for blood pressure or leg READ MORE
most gout patients need medication to most effectively control uric acid levels
but, weight loss and exercise and Diet can help

If taking a diuretic for blood pressure or leg edema , reducing dose or stopping can also be helpful

What is the treatment for a swollen ankle?

Define the cause
ICE
elevation
Anti-inflammatory medications
Be seen if there is ongoing pain, swelling or bruising

Possible autoimmune disease?

I would suggest seeing an Allergist/immunologist to get a diagnosis and treatment

Knee pain?

This is likely related to the intensity of your exercising - You could have injured something so it is important for you to be evaluated

Can exercises help with knee arthritis?

It is important to exercise to maintain strength in thigh and calf muscles!!

Are there steroid medicines to treat rheumatic pain?

There is a role for prednisone and similar medications but disease specific treatments are better long term strategies

Edema: ankles feet and lower legs

It sounds like you have venous insufficiency or lymphedema
Specific lymphedema therapy, compressive stockings and Vascular Consult is recommended

Is arthritis curable?

This depends on the type of arthritis

We have no cures but we have better treatments

He can be helped !!

What are the symptoms of juvenile lupus?

Fever, chills, joint pain, weakness, rash, fingers turn white or purple in cold, weight loss, leg swelling, seizure, cough, SOB, chest pain

Is yoga helpful in managing arthritis?

Yoga is helpful for mobility and range of motion and can be helpful in Fibromyalgia and osteoarthritis

Do you recommend oil massage for knee pain due to arthritis?

I would recommend acetaminophen and topical Diclofenac as well as physical therapy and daily exercise

Does arthritis cause a cracking sound in knees and joints?

In the knee the cracking or “ crepitus” is often from kneecap - we call this patellofemoral pain and some physical therapy is often helpful For moderate to severe arthritis, patients READ MORE
In the knee the cracking or “ crepitus” is often from kneecap - we call this patellofemoral pain and some physical therapy is often helpful

For moderate to severe arthritis, patients will note more severe pain and limited motion of joints

Can excess weight trigger rheumatic pain in people?

arthritis in knees can be “affected” by weight so weight loss would be ideal

I have soreness and swelling in my elbow. Should I visit a rheumatologist?

I suspect you have Olecranon Bursitis

This can be managed in primary care