Rheumology Unlocked with Dr. D.J. Williams

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.

Episodes

June 7, 2026 22 mins

In this episode, Dr. D.J. Williams and his patient Dorothy discuss Polymyalgia Rheumatica (PMR), a painful inflammatory condition that can cause sudden stiffness and loss of mobility. Learn about PMR symptoms, the dangers of Giant Cell Arteritis, the benefits of telemedicine, and why early diagnosis and proper treatment are essential for recovery.

Listen
Watch
Mark as Played

Join Dr. D.J. Williams as he breaks down rheumatoid arthritis, a chronic autoimmune disease that attacks the joints. Learn the early warning signs, risk factors, diagnostic process, and modern treatment options, including biologics and JAK inhibitors. Discover how nutrition, exercise, and other lifestyle changes can help reduce inflammation, protect joint health, and improve quality of life.

Listen
Watch
Mark as Played

In this episode, Dr. D.J. Williams reveals 10 early warning signs of psoriatic arthritis that are often overlooked or mistaken for other conditions. Learn how symptoms like swollen “sausage” fingers, nail pitting, morning stiffness, eye inflammation, digestive issues, and tendon pain may signal hidden joint disease. Early diagnosis can help prevent permanent joint damage and improve long-term health outcomes.

Listen
Watch
Mark as Played

Episode 15 explores the essential blood tests used to diagnose autoimmune diseases like lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, and Sjögren’s syndrome. Learn how ANA, ESR, CRP, rheumatoid factor, anti-CCP, and other markers help doctors detect inflammation, immune activity, and early disease signs. Dr. D.J. Williams explains what these tests mean, why results can be confusing, and how accurate diagnosis requires both lab work and clinical sym...

Listen
Watch
Mark as Played

In this episode, a rheumatologist reveals seven powerful superfoods that help reduce inflammation and ease rheumatoid arthritis symptoms. Learn how fatty fish, berries, leafy greens, legumes, nuts, seeds, olive oil, and spices like turmeric and ginger support joint health, improve mobility, and offer a natural, science-backed approach to managing RA.

Listen
Watch
Mark as Played

In this episode, Dr. D.J. Williams, a board-certified rheumatologist, explains the powerful connection between gut health and rheumatoid arthritis. Learn how the gut microbiome influences the immune system, how “leaky gut” and processed foods can drive inflammation and joint pain, and how lifestyle changes—such as a Mediterranean-style diet and stress management—can help restore balance and improve RA control.

Listen
Watch
Mark as Played

In this episode, a rheumatologist explains why fish oil is one of the few supplements truly supported by science for arthritis and chronic inflammation. Learn how omega-3 fatty acids reduce joint swelling and stiffness by targeting inflammation pathways, the right daily dosage to be effective, and why product quality and proper use matter for safety and results.

Listen
Watch
Mark as Played

In this episode, Dr. D.J. Williams, a board-certified rheumatologist, breaks down seven critical red flags that signal a rheumatologist may not be the right fit for autoimmune care. From rushed appointments and poor communication to lack of proper training and transparency, Dr. Williams explains why these issues can delay diagnosis and worsen outcomes. He also discusses the importance of personalized, whole-person care and how tele...

Listen
Watch
Mark as Played

Dr. D.J. Williams reviews seven viral anti-inflammatory foods, separating hype from science. He ranks each item based on real evidence, noting poor choices like celery juice and turmeric lattes and stronger options like chia seeds and matcha. Berries take the top spot for having the most proven anti-inflammatory benefits.

Listen
Watch
Mark as Played

Discover the top 10 anti-inflammatory foods that help calm an overactive immune system. In this episode, Dr. D.J. Williams explains how fatty fish, olive oil, whole grains, fermented foods, and colorful fruits and vegetables can reduce inflammation, support gut health, and boost energy for those living with autoimmune diseases.

Listen
Watch
Mark as Played

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.

Listen
Watch
Mark as Played

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.

Listen
Watch
Mark as Played

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.

Listen
Watch
Mark as Played

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.

Listen
Watch
Mark as Played

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.

Listen
Watch
Mark as Played

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.

Listen
Watch
Mark as Played

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.

Listen
Watch
Mark as Played

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.

Listen
Watch
Mark as Played

Popular Podcasts

    Hey Jonas! The official Jonas Brothers podcast. Hosted by Kevin, Joe, and Nick Jonas. It’s the Jonas Brothers you know... musicians, actors, and well, yes, brothers. Now, they’re sharing another side of themselves in the playful, intimate, and irreverent way only they can. Spend time with the Jonas Brothers here and stay a little bit longer for deep conversations like never before.

    Crime Junkie

    Does hearing about a true crime case always leave you scouring the internet for the truth behind the story? Dive into your next mystery with Crime Junkie. Every Monday, join your host Ashley Flowers as she unravels all the details of infamous and underreported true crime cases with her best friend Brit Prawat. From cold cases to missing persons and heroes in our community who seek justice, Crime Junkie is your destination for theories and stories you won’t hear anywhere else. Whether you're a seasoned true crime enthusiast or new to the genre, you'll find yourself on the edge of your seat awaiting a new episode every Monday. If you can never get enough true crime... Congratulations, you’ve found your people. Follow to join a community of Crime Junkies! Crime Junkie is presented by Audiochuck Media Company.

    Betrayal Weekly

    Betrayal Weekly is back for a new season. Every Thursday, Betrayal Weekly shares first-hand accounts of broken trust, shocking deceptions, and the trail of destruction they leave behind. Hosted by Andrea Gunning, this weekly ongoing series digs into real-life stories of betrayal and the aftermath. From stories of double lives to dark discoveries, these are cautionary tales and accounts of resilience against all odds. From the producers of the critically acclaimed Betrayal series, Betrayal Weekly drops new episodes every Thursday. If you would like to share your story, you can reach out to the Betrayal Team by emailing them at betrayalpod@gmail.com and follow us on Instagram at @betrayalpod and @glasspodcasts. Please join our Substack for additional exclusive content, curated book recommendations, and community discussions. Sign up FREE by clicking this link Beyond Betrayal Substack. Join our community dedicated to truth, resilience, and healing. Your voice matters! Be a part of our Betrayal journey on Substack.

    Dateline NBC

    Current and classic episodes, featuring compelling true-crime mysteries, powerful documentaries and in-depth investigations. Follow now to get the latest episodes of Dateline NBC completely free, or subscribe to Dateline Premium for ad-free listening and exclusive bonus content: DatelinePremium.com

    Stuff You Should Know

    If you've ever wanted to know about champagne, satanism, the Stonewall Uprising, chaos theory, LSD, El Nino, true crime and Rosa Parks, then look no further. Josh and Chuck have you covered.

Advertise With Us
Music, radio and podcasts, all free. Listen online or download the iHeart App.

Connect

© 2026 iHeartMedia, Inc.

  • Help
  • Privacy Policy
  • Terms of Use
  • AdChoicesAd Choices