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CHI Memorial Arthritis & Rheumatology Associates

Accepting New Patients

725 Glenwood Drive, Suite E-588, Chattanooga, TN 37404
Phone: (423) 362-7990

Office hours: Monday - Thursday, 8 a.m. - 4 p.m.; Friday, 8 a.m. - 12 p.m.

 

Rheumatologists diagnose and treat arthritis and other rheumatic diseases which affect the joints, muscles, bones and sometimes other organs in the body (e.g., kidneys, lungs, blood vessels, brain). Because these diseases are often complex, patients benefit from the care of an expert.  

Rheumatoid arthritis, osteoporosis, musculoskeletal pain disorders, gout, fibromyalgia, certain autoimmune diseases, such as lupus, vasculitis, antiphospholipid syndrome, and scleroderma are a few of the conditions that can be effectively managed by rheumatologists.  

Working closely with patients, rheumatologists develop tailored treatment programs that can help patients maintain the best possible quality of life. Diagnosis and treatment of rheumatic disorders in the early stages of the disease can improve patient outcomes.   

Call (423) 362-7990 to schedule an appointment with one of our medical professionals.

Our physicians & provider

Dr. Natalie Braggs

Natalie Braggs, MD

Rheumatologist

Dr. Melinda Garcia-Rosell

Melinda Garcia-Rosell, MD

Rheumatologist    

Laura Godwin

Laura Godwin, NP

Nurse Practitioner

Arthritis Facts

Arthritis can cause swelling, stiffness, fatigue and pain. If you’re experiencing these symptoms of arthritis, you’re not alone. One in five adults in the U.S. has been diagnosed with arthritis by their doctor. But more than discomfort and pain, it can limit your activity and keep you from doing what you love. 

There are two main types of arthritis. 

Osteoarthritis causes joint pain resulting from wear and tear that happens as we age. 

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is the most common type of autoimmune arthritis that is triggered by a faulty immune system (the body’s defense system). There’s no cure for RA, but many medications help relieve pain and keep it from getting worse. While it can affect any joint, the wrist and small joints of the hand including the knuckles and the middle joints of the fingers are most frequently involved. Rheumatoid arthritis is often diagnosed between age 40 and 60, but it’s still possible to develop the condition into your 80’s.

We know that with arthritis and other autoimmune disorders, early diagnosis is important to effective, long-term management of the disease. We use a combination of your family history, a physical exam, blood tests, and x-rays to make a diagnosis. Every person responds differently to medications and treatment, and we work closely with you to develop a tailored treatment program that managers your symptoms and helps you live your best life. 

Don't keep living with pain. Call (423) 362-7990 to schedule an appointment with one of our providers. 

Online check in

Did you know that our practice allows you to check in online ahead of time? You can confirm your appointment via text message or email, and check in online prior to your visit. You can also check in on your own device when you arrive. Ask us about using mobile registration to make your next visit simpler and faster!

We are partnering with Phreesia to help you save time registering for your appointment. Use mobile check-in to register from any smartphone, tablet or computer from the privacy of your own home. Checking in on your device saves you time and ensures your information is always up to date!

Patient portal

We care about our patients. Our goal is to provide you and your family with the best experience possible when interacting with our practice. We understand that it is not always possible to visit the clinic, leave message, wait on the phone, or update your personal health information. By offering online access to your health information we look forward to simplifying your healthcare experience.

CHI Memorial Missionary Ridge Medical Tower

CHI Memorial Arthritis and Rheumatology Associates