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Center for Pediatric Rheumatology

Patricia Erickson, Program Manager, 651-229-3893, (toll-free)

Gillette’s Center for Pediatric Rheumatology provides specialized care for children and adolescents who have a broad range of rheumatic and related inflammatory conditions. We offer comprehensive evaluation, diagnosis and treatment for patients with joint swelling, joint pain, unexplained fevers or rashes that may indicate rheumatic issues. Our multidisciplinary team includes pediatric rheumatologists, nurses, physical and occupational therapists, orthotists and psychologists.

Rheumatic conditions affect an estimated 300,000 children in the United States. As a regional referral center, the Center for Pediatric Rheumatology sees more than 300 new patients from the Upper Midwest and throughout the U.S. each year. We also collaborate with the University of Minnesota and the Mayo Clinic to research the role of genetics in rheumatic conditions.

Our Team Approach

Rheumatic conditions impact more than a child’s joints. Related symptoms can affect physical growth, school performance and family dynamics. Our specialists work with parents, siblings and teachers to minimize the condition’s impact and provide support for the entire family. By offering a team of medical experts within one organization, we provide comprehensive treatment that is convenient for patients, families and health-care providers.

Patricia Erickson, Program Manager

For more information or to speak with someone in pediatric rheumatology, call Patricia Erickson at or (toll-free). You may also contact us by email with questions.

Areas of Care

Juvenile Rheumatoid Arthritis Clinical Conditions - JRA

Other Rheumatic Conditions Clinical Conditions - Rheumatic Conditions

Spondyloarthropathy Syndromes
Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE, lupus)
Dermatomyositis
Vasculitis
Scleroderma
Mixed Connective Tissue Disease (MCTD)
Raynaud’s Phenomenon
Sjögren’s Syndrome
Infection-related arthritis, including Lyme disease

Specialists and Services

Pediatric Rheumatologists

Gillette’s pediatric rheumatologists diagnose and develop treatment plans for patients with a variety of rheumatic conditions. Because overactive immune systems trigger many rheumatic conditions, physicians may prescribe immune-suppressive and anti-inflammatory medications. They may also recommend relaxation techniques, braces or orthopaedic surgery to improve joint movement.

Rehabilitation Therapy

Physical and occupational therapists in Gillette’s rehabilitation therapies department help children maintain mobility and range of motion. Therapeutic recreation specialists help children explore individual and group physical activities. Regular activity can minimize joint pain and long-term damage, and prevent unhealthy weight gain.

Assistive Technology

Our assistive technology department works with pediatric rheumatologists and rehabilitation therapists to create customized braces that can improve joint movement in children with rheumatic conditions.

Pediatric Orthopaedics

When medications and therapy do not effectively prevent joint pain and deformities, Gillette’s pediatric orthopaedic surgeons can release tissue causing joint contractures and remove inflamed tissue from joint linings.

Nutritionists

Because joint pain can make physical activity challenging, children with rheumatic conditions are at greater risk for unhealthy weight gain. Nutritionists provide diet recommendations that help maintain a healthy body weight, minimizing strain on weight-bearing joints.