Dr. Anjali Shetty, MD is a Rheumatology specialist practicing at our Palm Harbor, FL clinic. She is dedicated to providing compassionate, comprehensive rheumatologic care for older adults (65 and over), registered with The Florida Board of Medicine and practicing under the Florida Statutes, Title XXXII, Chapter 458 (Medical Practice). General Rheumatologists possess specialized expertise in diagnosing and managing complex rheumatic conditions like rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, and lupus common in seniors, working collaboratively with your primary care physician and other healthcare providers to ensure optimal care. Dr. Shetty is committed to partnering with you and your family on your health journey, and is currently welcoming new patients. Please call (727) 773-9793 to schedule an appointment.
With over 10 years of dedicated experience in rheumatologic care, Dr. Shetty brings a wealth of clinical knowledge and compassionate care to her patients and their families. She earned her medical degree from the University of South Florida in 2010 and completed her residency in Internal Medicine and fellowship in rheumatology at the University of Illinois at Chicago in 2013, specializing in the comprehensive medical care of Older adults (65 and over). Dr. Shetty is Board Certified in Internal Medicine by the American Board of Internal Medicine, and Board Certified in Rheumatology by the American Board of Internal Medicine. She is also involved in clinical research, has published multiple papers, and presented research at the American College of Rheumatology meetings. Dr. Shetty received training in musculoskeletal ultrasound from the Ultrasound School of North American Rheumatologists to provide more accurate evaluation of joints for arthritic changes and assist with injections and aspirations with better precision. She is passionate about helping her patients understand the importance of a healthy lifestyle to complement their rheumatological care. Dr. Shetty is a Top Doctor in Tampa Bay for Rheumatology. Dr. Shetty provides consultations primarily in English.
A cornerstone of effective senior care is a strong patient-provider partnership. Dr. Anjali Shetty is a vital partner in this journey, focusing on holistic strategies to protect health and enhance quality of life.
Dr. Anjali Shetty is a compassionate partner in your senior's health journey, providing comprehensive rheumatologic care with a focus on understanding each individual's unique needs. She collaborates closely with primary care physicians and other specialists to create personalized treatment plans, addressing the complex rheumatic conditions common in aging adults like rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis. Her dedication extends beyond diagnosis and treatment, encompassing a holistic approach to care that prioritizes comfort, independence, and overall well-being.
By working together, you, your family, and Dr. Anjali Shetty can create a clear, actionable plan that respects your individual needs and healthcare goals.
Specific Plans Accepted
AARP
Aetna
Amerigroup (Wellpoint)
AvMed
Blue Cross Blue Shield of Florida
CareOregon
CareSource
Cigna
Community Health Choice
Health Net
HealthPlus
HealthPlus Amerigroup
Horizon Blue Cross Blue Shield of New Jersey
Humana
Husky Health
Medica
Midwest Health Plan
Peach State Health Plan
Simply Healthcare Plans
Staywell (Wellcare)
UnitedHealthCare
Wellcare of Georgia
inHealth
Also Accepts These Carriers
- Anthem
- Blue Cross Blue Shield
- Blue Cross and Blue Shield
- Buckeye Community Health Plan
- Buckeye Community Health Plan HMO-SNP
- CareFirst Blue Cross Blue Shield
- Curative
- Curative EPO
- Curative PPO
- Curative PPO Plus
- First Health
- First Health (Coventry Health Care) PPO
- HealthyBlue 2.0
- IN Total Health
- INTotal Health
- Medicaid
- Medicare
- Molina
- Molina Healthcare
- MultiPlan
- MultiPlan PPO
- National (BlueCard) PPO
- Tricare
- United Healthcare
Effective management of health is key to well-being in later life. Dr. Anjali Shetty provides expert, compassionate care for a range of conditions common in older adults, with a focus on managing symptoms and maintaining function. Common areas of focus include:
- Gout: Gout is a type of arthritis that causes sudden, severe joint pain, usually in the big toe, due to a buildup of uric acid crystals.
- Seronegative Rheumatoid Arthritis: Think of seronegative rheumatoid arthritis as a cousin to rheumatoid arthritis; it causes similar joint problems but doesn't show up in typical blood tests. Fortunately, effective treatments are available to reduce inflammation, manage pain, and help you stay active and engaged in life.
- Rheumatoid Arthritis of Hand: Hand pain and swelling from rheumatoid arthritis can significantly impact your ability to perform daily activities; however, working with your doctor to find the right treatment plan including medication and lifestyle changes can ease your discomfort and improve your quality of life.
- Dermatomyositis: Dealing with dermatomyositis means managing muscle weakness and skin changes, but a tailored treatment plan that includes medication and lifestyle adjustments can greatly enhance your quality of life.
- Osteoarthritis of Shoulder: The gradual breakdown of cartilage in your shoulder joint, known as osteoarthritis, causes pain and limited movement, yet with a personalized treatment plan from your doctor, involving pain relief and physical therapy, you can manage symptoms and preserve your ability to care for yourself.
- Scleroderma: Scleroderma is a complex condition, but a tailored treatment plan, including medication and lifestyle changes, can significantly improve the overall comfort and well-being of seniors and allow them to live fulfilling lives.
- Lupus: Living with lupus can be challenging, but with the right medical care, including medications to reduce inflammation and manage symptoms, many seniors can maintain their independence and enjoy fulfilling lives.
- Rheumatoid Arthritis: Living with RA can be challenging, but with the support of a healthcare team and proactive management strategies such as medication, physical therapy, and occupational therapy, seniors can greatly improve their mobility and daily functioning.
- Chondrocalcinosis: The presence of calcium deposits in your joint cartilage, known as chondrocalcinosis, can lead to inflammation and discomfort, but with proper management, you can maintain comfort and mobility.
- Vasculitis: If you have vasculitis, it means your blood vessels are inflamed, sometimes causing symptoms such as fever, rash, or joint pain; working closely with your doctor on medication and lifestyle adjustments can significantly ease symptoms and improve your overall quality of life.
- Systemic Vasculitis: Systemic vasculitis is a condition where inflammation in blood vessels can affect organs throughout the body, and managing it involves medications to reduce inflammation and protect organ function, improving overall health and well-being.
- Polymyalgia Rheumatica (PMR): Polymyalgia rheumatica (PMR) is a condition causing muscle pain and stiffness, mainly in the shoulders and hips, that's often successfully managed with low-dose corticosteroids improving mobility and daily life.
This list highlights some common health concerns and is for informational purposes. An accurate diagnosis and a personalized care plan can only be developed through a direct consultation with a qualified medical professional based on your specific health history.
To provide comprehensive and person-centered care, Dr. Anjali Shetty offers a range of services designed to diagnose, manage, and support the health of older adults:
- Joint Drainage: Joint drainage assists in managing symptoms of certain rheumatic diseases by reducing pressure and inflammation within the affected joint.
- Joint Fluid Test: To ensure your treatment plan is as effective as possible, a joint fluid test aids in distinguishing between various joint diseases, such as gout and rheumatoid arthritis.
- Musculoskeletal Function Test: A musculoskeletal function test helps your doctor understand how well your muscles and joints are working, guiding treatment for conditions like arthritis.
- Steroid Injection: For seniors with inflammatory joint conditions, steroid injections are a treatment option that can help decrease swelling and stiffness, making daily activities easier.
- Soft Tissue Injections: Managing chronic pain from conditions like arthritis is easier with soft tissue injections, which can reduce inflammation and discomfort in affected areas.
- Trigger Point Injection: Trigger point injections are sometimes used to help differentiate muscle pain from other sources of discomfort in seniors, assisting in a precise diagnosis and tailored care plan.
- Joint Injection: As part of a comprehensive care plan, joint injections can reduce inflammation and stiffness in affected joints.
- Arthrocentesis: Arthrocentesis helps manage joint pain and inflammation by allowing doctors to identify the cause of the problem and provide targeted treatment, easing symptoms for seniors.
- Myofascial Trigger Point Injection: Myofascial trigger point injections are a treatment option that can help relieve persistent muscle pain and stiffness in seniors, improving their mobility and overall comfort.
- Dual-Energy X-Ray Absorptiometry (DEXA) Scan: To help manage your arthritis and prevent falls, a DEXA scan helps reveal how strong your bones are, guiding treatment decisions to improve bone health.
- Injection Therapy: For seniors with rheumatoid arthritis or other inflammatory joint diseases, injections can help manage symptoms and improve mobility as part of a comprehensive treatment plan.
- Bursa Injection: As part of your senior care plan, a bursa injection can significantly ease discomfort caused by bursitis, improving your quality of life and daily activities.
Service availability can change. To understand which services are appropriate for your specific health needs, please schedule a consultation to develop a personalized care plan.
All medical services are provided in accordance with the standard scope of practice for Rheumatology in Florida.
Dr. Anjali Shetty is dedicated to partnering with older adults and their families to achieve their unique health objectives. The following examples illustrate how compassionate care can make a tangible difference in a patient's life:
- With the rheumatologist's guidance, a senior was able to resume their beloved hobby of playing mahjong with friends, a cherished social activity previously hampered by excruciating gout pain. The family felt immense relief knowing their loved one could enjoy these meaningful connections again.
- With guidance on managing her seronegative rheumatoid arthritis, a woman rediscovered the joy of dancing, finding relief from the persistent joint pain that had limited her for years. Her family was thrilled to see her renewed energy and enthusiasm for life.
These scenarios are illustrative examples of positive health outcomes. Individual results vary and depend on many factors specific to each person. She will work with you to define and achieve your personal health goals.
- Primary Location:
Practice
3801 E Highway 98 Ste 100100, Port St. Joe, FL, 32456
Phone: (850) 229-5752
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- HCA Florida St. Lucie Hospital Port St. Lucie (Residency Hospital)
- American Board of Internal Medicine (Internal Medicine)
- American Board of Internal Medicine (Rheumatology)
Here are answers to some common questions about Rheumatologic care with Dr. Anjali Shetty:
- What is a Rheumatologist?
- Dr. Shetty is a medical doctor specializing in diagnosing and treating arthritis and other diseases of the joints, muscles, and bones. She is skilled in managing complex conditions like rheumatoid arthritis and lupus, focusing on reducing pain and improving quality of life.
- What is the difference between osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis?
- Osteoarthritis is a "wear and tear" condition where cartilage in the joints breaks down over time. Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disease where the body's immune system mistakenly attacks the joints, causing inflammation. Dr. Shetty is an expert in diagnosing and treating both.
- I have joint pain. Should I see a rheumatologist or an orthopedic surgeon?
- Dr. Shetty, a rheumatologist, specializes in diagnosing and treating arthritis and joint pain, often with medications and non-surgical treatments. Orthopedic surgeons focus on surgical procedures like joint replacements. A rheumatologist is usually the best first step for unexplained joint pain.
- Can you help with fibromyalgia?
- Yes, we can help with fibromyalgia. It's a complex chronic pain condition, but rheumatologists like Dr. Shetty are key specialists in managing its symptoms. Treatment focuses on a multi-faceted approach, including gentle exercise, stress management, and specific medications to reduce pain and improve sleep.
- What are biologic medications or 'infusion therapy' for rheumatoid arthritis?
- Biologic medications are a newer, advanced class of treatments very effective for rheumatoid arthritis. Unlike general anti-inflammatories, they target specific parts of the immune system causing inflammation. Some are given as an infusion in a clinic or infusion center.
- What is Sjögren's syndrome?
- Sjögren's syndrome is an autoimmune condition that most commonly causes significant dry eyes and dry mouth. It can also be associated with fatigue and joint pain. Dr. Shetty can help manage the systemic aspects of the disease and works with ophthalmologists and dentists to coordinate care and provide relief for the symptoms.
- What is a joint injection and does it hurt?
- A joint injection is a procedure where medication, often a powerful anti-inflammatory like cortisone, is placed directly into the painful joint space. It's used to quickly reduce pain and swelling. The area is numbed beforehand, and while there may be a brief pressure sensation, the procedure is very quick and usually well-tolerated.
- What is gout and how is it treated?
- Gout is a very painful form of inflammatory arthritis caused by a buildup of uric acid crystals in a joint, most commonly the big toe. Treatment focuses on relieving the immediate pain with anti-inflammatory medications and preventing future attacks with medications that lower uric acid levels.
33920 US Highway 19 N Ste 241
Palm Harbor FL 34684
Phone: (727) 773-9793
Dr. Anjali Shetty, MD is regulated by the Florida Statutes, Title XXXII, Chapter 458 (Medical Practice) in Florida and is licensed by The Florida Board of Medicine.
National Provider Identifier (NPI): 1720303555
Registration can typically be verified through The Florida Board of Medicine website or by direct inquiry.
The information on this profile, provided by infoaging.org, is for general informational purposes and to help you connect with healthcare partners for yourself or a loved one. It does not constitute direct medical advice from the provider named. Rheumatology like Dr. Anjali Shetty are skilled in helping seniors and their families navigate their health journey. For urgent or life-threatening emergencies, please call 911 or visit the nearest emergency department. Always consult with a qualified medical professional for any health concerns or before making any decisions related to your care plan.