Rheumology Unlocked with Dr. D.J. Williams
I provide clear, science-based information for people living with autoimmune and arthritis conditions—so you can make confident, informed decisions about your health.
Here, you’ll find evidence-based insights on autoimmune diseases (including rheumatoid and psoriatic arthritis), anti-inflammatory nutrition, helpful supplements, movement, and stress-management strategies. My goal is simple: to help you thrive with arthritis, not just survive.
My guiding motto remains: “You have a disease, but you are not the disease.”
I’m Dr. David J. Williams, a double-board-certified rheumatologist and internal medicine physician. With training in Stanford Nutrition Science and Mindfulness from the University of Massachusetts, I founded Rheumatologist OnCall to expand access to high-quality rheumatologic care.
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Episodes
Friday Nov 28, 2025
Friday Nov 28, 2025
This episode explains why bilateral carpal tunnel syndrome can be an early warning sign of rheumatoid arthritis. A rheumatologist reveals how wrist inflammation compresses the median nerve, causing numbness and tingling. You’ll learn the key RA clues symmetric joint swelling, intense fatigue, and long morning stiffness why early diagnosis prevents serious damage.
Friday Nov 28, 2025
Friday Nov 28, 2025
This episode reveals seven serious warning signs that autoimmune diseases may be damaging internal organs. A rheumatologist explains red flags like crashing fatigue, severe brain fog, trouble swallowing, breathing difficulty, cardiovascular changes, vision-threatening vasculitis, and early kidney distress—urging quick action to prevent irreversible harm.
Thursday Nov 27, 2025
Thursday Nov 27, 2025
This episode covers 11 early signs of Lupus you should never ignore. A rheumatologist explains key symptoms like the butterfly rash, hair loss, chronic fatigue, fevers, joint pain, mouth sores, and Raynaud’s phenomenon. It also highlights internal warnings such as abnormal blood tests, chest pain, brain fog, and the silent danger of lupus nephritis—showing why early diagnosis is essential.
Thursday Nov 27, 2025
Thursday Nov 27, 2025
Dr. D.J. Williams explains what truly causes gout, why uric acid can appear normal during attacks, and how sharp uric acid crystals trigger intense joint pain. This episode covers accurate diagnosis, key imaging tests, joint fluid analysis, and effective treatment—from flare control to long-term uric acid reduction and essential low-purine diet tips.
Wednesday Nov 26, 2025
Wednesday Nov 26, 2025
Struggling with new joint pain around menopause? Dr. David J. Williams explains how dropping estrogen triggers stiffness, muscle pain, and even autoimmune flare-ups. Learn why this “Musculoskeletal Syndrome of Menopause” is common, how HRT fits into modern research, and what lifestyle and treatment options can help you feel stronger and supported.
Tuesday Nov 25, 2025
Tuesday Nov 25, 2025
In this episode, two rheumatology experts break down why autoimmune diseases are rising, hard to diagnose, and often misunderstood. They discuss real-world symptoms, myths about vaccines, the limits of lab tests, and why personalized treatment matters. You’ll also hear about emerging therapies and the dangers of online misinformation.
Tuesday Nov 25, 2025
Tuesday Nov 25, 2025
A quick, clear guide to lupus symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment. Dr. David J. Williams explains fatigue, joint pain, rashes, and other early signs, plus the tests and therapies that work—including hydroxychloroquine, immunosuppressants, and biologics. Learn how early care can prevent long-term damage.
Tuesday Nov 25, 2025
Tuesday Nov 25, 2025
Welcome to Rheumatology Unlocked. In this introductory episode, Dr. D.J. Williams shares the mission of the podcast—making autoimmune and arthritis science simple, practical, and empowering. Learn what future episodes will cover, from inflammation to nutrition, treatment insights, and real-world strategies for thriving with chronic conditions.